Planned Parenthood Commends Biden-Harris Administration Rescission of Trump Administration Refusal of Care Rule
For Immediate Release: Jan. 9, 2024
PPFA and partners brought a suit against Trump administration over the rule in 2019
WASHINGTON — Today, the Biden-Harris administration finalized their rule rescinding most parts of the Trump administration’s “refusal of care rule,” which would have endangered patients by allowing health care workers — including physicians, nurses, receptionists, EMTs, and call center staff — to deny information and care to those who needed it without even a referral.
Statement from Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America:
“It’s critical that everyone has all the relevant information they need to make informed decisions about their health and families and access to the health care services they need. Today’s action from the Biden-Harris administration is an important step in that direction. The most harmful aspects of the now-rescinded rule would have dramatically limited people's access to health care and information. It’s simple: No one should be denied health care.”
The “refusal of care rule” was set to take effect in November 2019. Planned Parenthood Federation of America, on behalf of its member-affiliates, and Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, sued the Trump administration to block the rule, and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York struck down the rule. The Eastern District of Washington and the Northern District of California also ruled to vacate the rule in separate cases.
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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect, and without judgment, striving to create equitable access to health care. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable education and information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives. Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports the independently incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates operating health centers across the U.S.