States, D.C. Sue Over Medicaid Family Planning Cuts

More than 20 Democratic-led states and Washington, D.C., have filed lawsuits against the Trump administration to challenge a new federal law that bans Medicaid payments for one year to Planned Parenthood and similar providers. The measure, included in the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act,' targets organizations receiving over $800,000 in Medicaid funding, affecting providers such as Maine Family Planning. Plaintiffs argue the law is unconstitutionally vague, retaliates against Planned Parenthood for abortion advocacy, and violates First Amendment rights. Critics warn the funding ban could force hundreds of clinics to close, threatening access to essential health services for millions of low-income Americans. States like Washington and Maryland have pledged to temporarily cover the funding gap with state resources during the litigation. A federal judge has temporarily blocked the funding cuts while the legal battle continues.