Planned Parenthood believes it's being targeted a second time by North Carolina legislators with another budget provision withholding money from the group to provide non-abortion services.WILMINGTON, NC (WECT/AP) - Planned Parenthood believes it's being targeted a second time by North Carolina legislators with another budget provision withholding money from the group to provide non-abortion services.
A House budget subcommittee approved a spending plan at the end of May containing a provision barring the Department of Health and Human Services from providing money for family planning and pregnancy prevention beyond local health departments.
Melissa Reed with Planned Parenthood Health Systems said the new provision still aims at the group and could mean the loss of $343,000. Some lawmakers don't like that Planned Parenthood performs abortions and promotes pro-choice policies
The passing of the House budget without money for Planned Parenthood was expected, according to Irene Godinez, director of public relations for Planned Parenthood Health Systems. But she says it's different this year than last, because the budget does not specifically name the organization.
Now, Godinez says that since women are the majority of voters, the organization will focus on the senate, prompting people to contact their local state senators.
"There's still time that we can convince the legislators, or let them know that women are watching," she said.
Godinez says there's no plan B for funding, adding that they will consider other options if necessary after the budget is approved.
Copyright 2012 WECT. All rights reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
