by Matt Lamb at LifeSite News
Individuals do not have “rights” to use taxpayer dollars at Planned Parenthood, the Supreme Court ruled today.
Justice Neil Gorsuch ruled in Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic that South Carolina can exclude Planned Parenthood from its Medicaid health insurance program. The ruling allows a 2018 executive order to be enforced.
While the case dealt with technical language concerning the “rights” of individuals to choose their healthcare provider under the taxpayer-funded program, the practical implication is states will retain latitude to defund Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid dollars. The health insurance program is jointly operated by the state and federal government.
“Planned Parenthood and patient Julie Edwards sued, claiming the exclusion of Planned Parenthood violated the any-qualified-provider provision,” the majority opinion stated. “Edwards alleged she preferred Planned Parenthood for gynecological care but needed Medicaid coverage.”
All five other Republican-appointed Supreme Court justices agreed with Gorsuch. Liberal Justices Elena Kagan, Ketanji Jackson, and Sonia Sotomayor all dissented.
Governor Henry McMaster,…
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