A federal judge in Massachusetts has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from cutting Medicaid funding for certain Planned Parenthood facilities. The ruling followed the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a major budget bill that partially defunded the organization. The judge found the law unconstitutional, arguing it disproportionately targets Planned Parenthood entities that do not offer abortion services, potentially harming patients with non-abortion-related care.
The judge, Indira Talwani, an Obama appointee, ruled that the law unconstitutionally penalizes Planned Parenthood member organizations that do not provide abortions. The order partially granted a preliminary injunction, allowing some services to continue while the lawsuit proceeds. The Trump administration is expected to appeal the decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.
Planned Parenthood, the nation’s largest abortion provider, had argued that the law would lead to severe consequences, including the closure of about 200 of its 600 facilities and the loss of services for over a million people who rely on non-abortion care. The organization stated it viewed the ruling as a partial victory and remained hopeful for further judicial action.
Department of Justice attorneys had previously argued that the purpose of the budget provision was to stop “federal subsidies for Big Abortion” by freezing federal funds for certain Medicaid recipients who provide abortions. Weakening Planned Parenthood has been a key priority for the pro-life movement since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
The judge’s initial order was met with backlash from Republicans, who called it judicial overreach. However, Talwani later provided a more detailed explanation for her decision, which supported the temporary restraining order. The case highlights ongoing tensions over reproductive rights and the role of federal funding in healthcare access for low-income individuals.
The ongoing legal battle underscores the political and ideological stakes of the issue, with the administration facing significant challenges in its attempt to reshape federal healthcare policies. The decision may have far-reaching implications for both the organization and the broader healthcare landscape in the United States.