PPINK stunned that SB 404 passed out of Senate Judiciary

INDIANAPOLIS – In spite of countless questions brought by Senate Judiciary Committee members and testimony of lawyers and health care professionals to the alarming consequences the bill would render, Senate Bill (SB) 404 was moved to second reading after more than three hours of discussion by a 6-4 vote.

Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky (PPINK) supports child advocates' efforts to stop further consideration of SB 404.

"We encourage all teenagers to have open and honest conversations with their parents, but in the real world, we know that doesn't always work," said Betty Cockrum, President and CEO of PPINK. "This bill undercuts the essential support provided by trusted adults – including clergy, health care professionals, and even other family members – to young girls and women dealing with the challenges of an unintended pregnancy. Young girls and women who, for whatever reason, feel they cannot turn to a parent. It is harmful legislation that would likely cause further harm to the very victims they claim they wish to protect and is fraught with unintended consequences."

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Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky (PPINK) provides high-quality health care to more than 51,000 men and women each year at our health centers across two states. Our centers are staffed by skilled clinicians and highly trained health care professionals. 93% of our nonprofit’s services are preventive in nature and include Pap tests, breast and testicular cancer screenings, birth control, STD testing and treatment, and annual wellness exams. Through the Sara and Albert Reuben Partners in Health Education initiative, PPINK also provides sexuality and reproductive health education programs, equipping people to make responsible decisions so that families thrive in Indiana and Kentucky.

PPINK’s doors are open to all who need care and we provide our services in a confidential, compassionate and non-judgmental manner. We accept Medicaid and insurance.