Alarming reproductive freedom news out of the Supreme Court: On April 2, the justices heard arguments in Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic—a case that could give states the green light to block Medicaid patients from getting care at Planned Parenthood and other clinics that provide abortion and reproductive health care.

This isn’t just about abortion. It’s about millions of people—especially Black, Latino, Indigenous, and LGBTQ+ folks, and those with low incomes—losing access to cancer screenings, birth control, STI testing, and other essential care.

We refuse to back down. That’s why we joined Planned Parenthood and other partners to rally at the Supreme Court on April 2.

 

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Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic: What’s This Supreme Court Case About? 

The background: In 2018, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster—an anti-abortion extremist—issued an executive order to kick Planned Parenthood South Atlantic (PPSAT) out of the state’s Medicaid program. A PPSAT patient, Julie Edwards, challenged the order—and federal courts have repeatedly ruled in her favor.

Federal law is clear: Medicaid patients have the right to see any qualified provider they choose, including Planned Parenthood. And the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed this three times.

But now, thanks to a push from anti-abortion extremists, the Supreme Court has agreed to take up the case.

🔎 The Big Picture

This isn’t just about South Carolina. A bad ruling could open the door for other states to cut off Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood and other providers they don’t like.

That means fewer places for people to get the care they need. It means politicians deciding who you can and can’t see for birth control, cancer screenings, and more. It means turning Medicaid into a political weapon.

“Every person should be able to access quality, affordable health care from a provider they trust, no matter their income or insurance status,” said Jenny Black, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. “This case is politics at its worst: anti-abortion politicians using their power to target Planned Parenthood and block people who use Medicaid as their primary form of insurance from getting essential health care like cancer screenings and birth control.”

⚠️ The Bottom Line

The Medina v. Planned Parenthood case is flying under the radar, but the consequences couldn’t be more serious. This isn’t just about Planned Parenthood—it’s about whether states can block low-income people from accessing care with providers they trust.

We’re not going quietly. We’re showing up. And we’re making it clear: we’re with Planned Parenthood—and with every patient who deserves the freedom to choose their provider.

💡Resources for Abortion Care

No one should have to risk their life to get medical care. If you live in a state with an abortion ban, you’re not alone, and there are resources to help.

• Get abortion care: Explore Abortion Finder, Abortion on our Terms, Plan C, M+A Hotline for abortion care resources—or chat with Charley the Chatbot (right here on this webpage).
• Know your rights: Even in banned states, some exceptions may apply. Learn about your state’s laws through the Repro Legal Helpline.
• Find abortion funds & support: Groups like the National Network of Abortion Funds and ineedana.com can help you access financial resources.
• Get emergency legal help: If you or someone you know is being denied emergency medical care, reach out to Abortion Defense Network.