Milwaukee committee proposes repeal of state's abortion ban

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A resolution that would send lobbyists to Madison in effort to repeal Wisconsin's criminal abortion ban is making its way through Milwaukee city government. 

The resolution passed through the Steering and Rules Committee with no objections on Monday, June 27.

While there's not much local elected leaders can do to change a statewide law, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa told CBS 58 she can't do nothing.

"Now more than ever we need to protect women here in Wisconsin," Zamarripa said. "Not only has Roe been repealed, but in Wisconsin, we have this archaic ban that bans abortions in all cases, and that is unacceptable."

Zamarripa said if this resolution is successful, lobbyists will insist lawmakers introduce a bill that repeals the state statute banning abortions.

As the state's largest city, Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic said Milwaukee women are especially impacted by the United States Supreme Court's decision to strike down Roe vs. Wade and create uncertainty around the legality of abortions in Wisconsin. 

"This is women's basic reproductive freedom, justice and health care," Dimitrijevic said. "This is literally life or death for some people."

The resolution still needs to pass through Milwaukee's next Common Council meeting. If it does, its sponsors admit it won't be an easy task if lobbyists make it to Madison.

"It's definitely an uphill battle for us," Zamarripa said.

Assembly Republicans ignored Governor Tony Evers' request to repeal the state's criminal abortion ban on June 22.

"We can do better and Milwaukeeans deserve better," Dimitrijevic said. "Madison needs to listen to us."

The Common Council meets next on July 12.