On April 9, in a 4-2 decision, Arizona’s Supreme Court imposed a strict ban on abortion – reversing a previous rule that permitted the termination of a pregnancy up to the 15-week mark. Under the new rule, an abortion can only be performed to save the mother’s life. In all other circumstances, it is forbidden, and abortion providers can potentially face prison sentences.

With the decision, Arizona becomes the 17th state to have outlawed abortion in most or all circumstances since the US Supreme Court struck down the famous Roe v. Wade ruling that provided federal protection for abortion.

Planned Parenthood now has 14 days to take up the case with a lower court before the new rule takes effect. Arizona Attorney General. Chris Mayes (D) has already pledged not to enforce any bans on abortion.