Your cart is currently empty!
As a Farewell Gesture to Women, the Obama Administration Shields Planned Parenthood from State Defunding
In a final act of support for women and families, the Obama administration rolled out a regulation on Wednesday designed to protect Planned Parenthood from state defunding. The Department of Health and Human Services’ new rule bars states from cutting funding to health care providers unless they are deemed ineffective in providing family planning services.
“This regulation will enhance access to critical services like cancer screenings and contraception for some of the most at-risk patients in our nation,” stated Dr. Karen A. Scott, Chief Medical Officer of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health. “The public feedback overwhelmingly backed the finalization of this rule.” While the regulation doesn’t explicitly mention Planned Parenthood, it’s pretty clear who’s being protected, especially since 24 Republican-led state legislatures have attempted to cut funding to the organization in recent years.
Planned Parenthood relies on federal funds through programs like Title X and Medicaid, which are dedicated to assisting low- to middle-income individuals. Notably, Title X funds cannot be used for abortions, and Medicaid only allows for abortion coverage in specific situations such as rape, incest, or to save the mother’s life. To put it simply, only three percent of the services provided by Planned Parenthood last year were abortion-related, and since federal money doesn’t fund abortions, defunding them makes zero sense. “President Obama has solidified his legacy as a champion of women’s health,” declared the newly appointed president of Planned Parenthood, Emily Johnson. “This regulation safeguards birth control, cancer screenings, and STI testing and treatment for millions.”
Now, while Trump could potentially reverse this rule using the Congressional Review Act—allowing Congress to roll back regulations—Planned Parenthood is led by a determined president ready to advocate for women. “We will not back down and will continue to fight for our patients’ access to care,” Johnson stressed. “Every person deserves to control their own bodies and health without political interference.” For more on home insemination options, check out this informative post.
In summary, the Obama administration took a significant step to protect Planned Parenthood from state defunding, ensuring continued access to crucial health services for vulnerable populations. As the political landscape shifts, organizations like Planned Parenthood remain committed to fighting for women’s health rights.