Appeals Court Upholds Block on Medicaid Funding for Planned Parenthood
New Orleans, LA - September 12, 2025 – A federal appeals court today ruled to allow the Trump administration’s policy of blocking Medicaid funds from going to Planned Parenthood affiliates to remain in affect, reversing a previous district court injunction. The 5th Circuit Court of appeals decision, delivered september 12, 2025, at approximately 11:45 AM Central Time, marks a notable victory for opponents of the organization and throws the future of reproductive healthcare access for low-income individuals into uncertainty.
The ruling stems from a 2019 rule finalized by the Trump administration that prohibited Title X funds-federal grants supporting family planning and reproductive health services-from being used by healthcare providers that offer abortion services. Planned Parenthood,which provides a range of services including contraception,STD testing,and cancer screenings,challenged the rule,arguing it violated federal law and jeopardized access to essential healthcare.This decision impacts millions of Medicaid recipients who rely on Planned Parenthood for preventative care, particularly in states where alternative providers are limited.
The court’s majority opinion argued that the administration had the authority to implement the rule based on its interpretation of federal law. Judges Edith Jones and Stuart Kyle Duncan formed the majority. Judge James L. Dennis dissented, stating the rule “disregards statutory mandates and undermines the well-being of vulnerable patients.”
Planned Parenthood has indicated it will seek further review of the decision, potentially appealing to the Supreme Court.”We will continue to fight to ensure everyone has access to the healthcare they need, regardless of where they live or how much money they make,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, in a statement released shortly after the ruling.
The original rule was blocked by a district court in 2020, but today’s decision reinstates the funding restriction while the legal battle continues. The case highlights the ongoing political and legal battles surrounding reproductive healthcare access in the United States.
