WA will replace Planned Parenthoods lost Medicaid funding with state dollars

Washington state will backfill over $11 million in lost Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood following a court ruling that allowed a federal prohibition on such funding. Governor Bob Ferguson stated that Washington will step in to ensure women maintain access to critical healthcare services, which include more than just abortions. Planned Parenthood serves over 100,000 patients in the state, and the ruling could impact nearly 43,000 Medicaid patients. Advocates are also urging lawmakers to restore an $8. 5 million cut to the Abortion Access Project, which funds reproductive health services in the state.

The state Department of Health did not request this funding in the upcoming supplemental budget, but discussions are anticipated. Medicaid, which is jointly funded by federal and state governments, already restricts abortion funding, further complicating access to care. The loss of funding could lead to reduced hours and staffing at clinics, raising concerns about patient security. Ferguson's commitment ensures continued access to healthcare despite the challenges posed by federal funding cuts.