ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - The Maryland Senate gave final approval Tuesday to a measure that would steer state funds to family planning services provided by Planned Parenthood, if the federal government cuts funding.
The Senate voted 32-15 for a bill that already has cleared the House. The bill would direct $2 million in the state’s Medicaid budget to family planning services provided by Planned Parenthood, as well as another $700,000 from the state’s general fund.
Supporters submitted the legislation out of concern that Republicans in Congress would cut such funding in the GOP health care bill that was pulled last week. Democratic lawmakers are moving forward with the bill in case the funds are jeopardized in the future. Supporters say the measure will ensure funding is available for low-income patients who rely on preventative care services such as birth control, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections.
Opponents expressed concern about whether the state would be subsidizing abortion. Republican Sen. Gail Bates of Howard backed an amendment to the bill that would require each provider to submit a report documenting the types of services provided.
“There are some of us who are concerned truly about abortion funding with that, but you can’t really tell how much is spent on what, based on their annual report because they lump it all into health care,” Bates said.
Democratic Sen. Richard Madaleno of Montgomery said federal law prohibits using the money to pay for abortion. The proposed amendment didn’t pass.
Asked if Gov. Larry Hogan would sign or veto the bill, spokeswoman Amelia Chasse wrote in an email that the bill would be reviewed.
“The governor has consistently funded health care organizations in each of the administration’s three budgets,” Chasse wrote. “This legislation will be part of the governor’s bill review process that includes hundreds of bills.”
Planned Parenthood has 10 health centers in Maryland.
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