Today, Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-22) joined Democratic colleagues in introducing the Restoring Essential Healthcare Act, legislation to repeal the newly enacted Republican ban on Medicaid reimbursements to Planned Parenthood health centers.

“Planned Parenthood is often the only place people can go for affordable, trusted health care.  The ban on Medicaid reimbursements has put 200 clinics at risk of closure, affecting thousands of patients in Florida and millions more across the country, said Rep. Frankel. 

“As required by federal law, Planned Parenthood does not use Medicaid funding for abortion care. Medicaid reimbursements support preventive and lifaesaving services such as STI testing and treatment, cancer screenings, birth control, and HPV vaccinations.”

“This cruel ban does not exist in isolation,” Frankel continued. “The harm is compounded by recent Republican deep cuts to Medicaid, affordable health coverage, and food assistance. These ugly policies work hand in hand to strip basic necessities from those who can least afford to lose them.”

On July 28, a federal judge temporarily blocked enforcement of the Medicaid provision, but the ruling is expected to be appealed. The Restoring Essential Healthcare Act would permanently repeal this dangerous measure and restore access to care for millions of Americans.

The bill has been endorsed by leading organizations committed to reproductive health and rights, including Planned Parenthood Federation of America, the Center for Reproductive Rights, the National Abortion Federation, the National Council of Jewish Women, the National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, the National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, and Physicians for Reproductive Health.

Senators Tina Smith of Minnesota and Patty Murray of Washington have introduced companion legislation in the Senate.