PHOENIX (NEWSnet/AP) — A proposed repeal of Arizona’s near-total ban on abortion received approval Wednesday from the state House.

It clears the first hurdle two weeks after a court concluded the state can enforce the 1864 law, which offers an exceptiononly for saving a patient’s life.

Three Republicans joined in with all 29 Democrats on Wednesday to repeal a law that predated Arizona’s statehood and provides no exceptions for rape or incest.

Republicans had used procedural votes to block previous repeal iniatives.

A breakthrough came Wednesday when a second Republican joined all Democrats in voting to overrule the GOP House speaker, who has blocked repeal. A third Republican joined to support repeal.

Dozens of people gathered outside the state Capitol before the House and Senate were scheduled to meet, many carrying signs or wearing shirts showing opposition to abortion rights.

There appears to be enough support for repeal in Arizona Senate, but a final vote is unlikely May 1.

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