Judge Hears Arguments Regarding Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri’s License in Columbia

Kansas City – The U.S. District Court of Western Missouri considered arguments today relating to Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri’s license to provide abortions at its Columbia Health Center. Judge Nanette Laughrey is considering whether to issue a preliminary injunction which would stop Missouri’s Department of Health and Senior Services from revoking PPKM’s license while the health care provider searches for a qualified doctor with appropriate hospital privileges mandated by the state.

Earlier this month, the Court issued a temporary restraining order after determining that DHSS treated PPKM differently than other Ambulatory Surgical Centers because of ‘animus’ to the services provided at the Columbia health center. PPKM presented further evidence of that different treatment and animus to the Court today.

“We remain confident about our case as we move forward in our search for a qualified physician. PPKM will continue to do everything in its power to restore access to safe, legal abortion for the women in Mid-Missouri,” Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri President and CEO, Laura McQuade said.

If PPKM does not obtain a preliminary injunction, it will further delay the restoration of abortion services in Columbia. Missouri is currently a one-provider state, which means countless women will face insurmountable challenges in distance and time to get the care they deserve and need. 

Planned Parenthood is a vital resource for our community and for women and families throughout Kansas and Missouri. We are a trusted advocate and source of health care and education for thousands of women, men, and children. For 80 years, women have relied on Planned Parenthood to keep themselves and their families safe and healthy.