Internet Explorer 11 is not supported

For optimal browsing, we recommend Chrome, Firefox or Safari browsers.

Planned Parenthood Wins Battle to Block Mississippi Law

A federal judge has blocked a Mississippi law that banned the state's Medicaid program from spending money with any health care provider that offers abortions.

A federal judge has blocked a Mississippi law that banned the state's Medicaid program from spending money with any health care provider that offers abortions.

 

U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III ruled Thursday in a lawsuit filed in mid-June by two Planned Parenthood affiliates. The law took effect July 1.

 

Jordan said every court to consider similar laws has found they violate the "free-choice-of-provider" provision of federal law. Medicaid is paid by federal and state dollars.

 

Jordan pointed to a Sept. 14 ruling from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which upheld an injunction against a similar Louisiana law. The circuit handles appeals from Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.

 

Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, praised Jordan's ruling.

 

"Yet another court has said it is unacceptable for politicians to dictate where women can go for their health care," Richards said in a statement Thursday.

 

Republican Gov. Phil Bryant said he was "obviously disappointed with the ruling" and he still believes he was right to sign the law. He has said repeatedly that he wants to end abortion in the state.

Caroline Cournoyer is GOVERNING's senior web editor.
Special Projects