President Barack Obama has proposed a new rule that will prevent the defunding of Planned Parenthood, regardless of political reasons.
After countless rumors and leaked videos attacking Planned Parenthood, the healthcare company will finally receive permanent funding. According to Joan McCarter of Daily Kos, “the proposed rule says that states cannot withhold Title X federal family planning funds from providers for any reason other than their ‘ability to deliver services to program beneficiaries in an effective manner.’”
Because Planned Parenthood is one of the most well-known companies that provides abortion, they have long been under scrutiny. However, abortion is not the only service Planned Parenthood provides.
According to Planned Parenthood’s 2014-2015 annual report, only 3 percent of its services were abortions. Its website states that the organization helps “prevent unintended pregnancies through contraception, reduce the spread of sexually transmitted infections through testing and treatment, and screen for cervical and other cancers.”
The Huffington Post spoke to Cecile Richards, the president of Planned Parenthood.
“This [new rule] will make a real difference in so many people’s lives,” Richards said. “Thanks to the Obama administration, women will still be able to access the birth control they need to plan their families, and the cancer screenings they need to stay healthy.”
Before Obama’s new rule can be implemented, there will be a comment period for people to speak out on the issue. Citizens have until Oct. 7 to voice their opinion on the topic and provide comment. The Department of Health and Human Services will make a final decision based on the feedback.
For college students, this rule would be great news. Planned Parenthood offers affordable health services, many of which college students may not be able to afford otherwise.
Abortion is a major decision for anyone, and Planned Parenthood clinics offer counseling services and information on parenthood and adoption. The clinic also offers information on what to expect after an abortion and your mental state.
Some college students may feel ready for a child, but others may not. Mistakes can happen, and if a mistake were to happen, it should not be up to the state to decide how to handle it.
