On May 12, 2025, over 100 state legislators from 49 states urged Congress to cease federal funding for Planned Parenthood. In a letter addressed to Republican leaders, they called for the use of budget reconciliation to eliminate taxpayer support for the organization.
The letter, signed by members of the National Pro-Life Leaders Network, was sent to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Minority Leader John Thune, House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie, and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo. It emphasized concerns over Planned Parenthood’s receipt of nearly $700 million in taxpayer funds in 2023, primarily through Medicaid.
The legislators cited reports of unsafe conditions at Planned Parenthood facilities, including botched abortions and inadequate medical practices. They also highlighted instances where the organization allegedly undermined parental rights, referencing a lawsuit involving the transportation of a minor across state lines for an abortion without parental consent.
Additionally, the letter criticized Planned Parenthood’s political activities, noting that its political arm reportedly spent nearly $70 million during the 2024 election cycle to support Democratic candidates and promote abortion-related initiatives.
The call to defund Planned Parenthood aligns with broader efforts by anti-abortion groups to restrict access to abortion services and redirect funding to alternative healthcare providers. These groups argue that community health centers and Federally Qualified Health Centers can offer comprehensive care without performing abortions.
As Congress considers budgetary measures, the push to eliminate federal funding for Planned Parenthood remains a focal point for pro-life advocates seeking to influence national policy.
