US Court Blocks Trump Medicaid Cuts to Planned Parenthood, Citing Unplanned Pregnancy Risks

US Court Blocks Trump's Medicaid Cuts to Planned Parenthood

A US federal court has issued a preliminary injunction, preventing the Trump administration from enforcing a provision in a recent tax bill that would have stripped Medicaid funding from Planned Parenthood and its affiliates.

Judge Cites Health Concerns

District Judge Indira Talwani in Boston ruled that the measure is likely unconstitutional. The decision expands upon a previous order, ensuring continued Medicaid payments to all Planned Parenthood clinics.

"Patients are likely to suffer adverse health consequences where care is disrupted or unavailable," Judge Talwani wrote. She emphasized that restricting access to healthcare services could lead to an increase in unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.

Planned Parenthood's Response

Planned Parenthood, along with member organizations, filed the lawsuit, arguing that the funding cuts would force nearly 200 clinics in 24 states to close, potentially impacting over 1 million patients.

"We’re suing the Trump administration over this targeted attack on Planned Parenthood health centers and the patients who rely on them for care," said Planned Parenthood’s president and CEO Alexis McGill Johnson.

Details of the Provision

The provision in question targeted abortion providers receiving more than $800,000 in Medicaid reimbursements. Planned Parenthood argued that, while not explicitly named, it was the clear target.

Government's Reaction

A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services criticized the ruling, stating that it "undermines state flexibility and disregards longstanding concerns about accountability."