Planned Parenthood faces loss of federal grants as review of DEI funding begins

The ongoing debates surrounding Planned Parenthood’s federal funding have taken another twist with reports suggesting that the Trump administration might freeze millions in family-planning grants.

This move comes after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services launched a review process for over $27 million in Title X funding.

Officials have voiced concerns about compliance with various federal laws and executive orders, with one stating, “HHS expects all recipients of federal funding to comply with federal law.”

Meanwhile, White House Spokesman Kush Desai has emphasized that the administration is focused on safeguarding the taxpayer’s dollars.

He further explained that they’re addressing spending on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, marking a shift in funding priorities.

The administration has pointed out that no definitive decisions about Planned Parenthood’s funding have yet been made.

However, sources indicated that the funds in question could be halted while the review determines if they were allocated for DEI initiatives.

Former Planned Parenthood worker and pro-life activist Abby Johnson is optimistic about the possible funding freeze, noting that the organization has deep ties to DEI practices.

Johnson remarked that cutting funds could be a straightforward victory for taxpayers and expressed her support for the administration’s efforts to defund Planned Parenthood generally.

In a recent statement, Kristen Waggoner, President and CEO of Alliance Defending Freedom, characterized the potential funding freeze as “common sense.”

She described Planned Parenthood as a significant player in both abortion services and what she termed ‘gender-affirming care’, arguing that there’s no obligation for the organization to receive public funds.

The opportunity to reassess funding for Planned Parenthood has emerged with increased attention following Trump’s re-election in 2024.

Notably, an op-ed in The Wall Street Journal highlighted concerns regarding the allocation of nearly $300 million to groups like Planned Parenthood, urging a thorough review.

In a forceful letter, 150 pro-life organizations, led by Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, are calling on Congress to fully defund Planned Parenthood in the next reconciliation bill.

This type of legislation, unlike others, can pass with a simple 51-vote majority, and with Republicans currently controlling both the House and Senate, they stand a good chance of pushing the measure through.

The organizations behind the letter also referenced a troubling report by The New York Times concerning unsafe conditions at Planned Parenthood facilities, further justifying their stance.

Recent figures showed that Planned Parenthood secured nearly $700 million in federal funding during the last fiscal year, raising crucial questions about its role and operations moving forward.

Planned Parenthood has responded to the freeze report by labeling it as “shameful but unsurprising,” arguing that the implications could severely impact millions relying on their health services.

The organization stressed that such actions could threaten access to vital healthcare through Title X programs.