Maryland Democrats Back Planned Parenthood Funding Bill

BALTIMORE (WJZ) — A new health plan, as proposed by Republicans, to replace the Affordable Care Act would cut off federal funding for Planned Parenthood nationwide.

Here in Maryland, lawmakers are already taking action.

A key issue in the January Women's March, and it remains a priority, was reproductive rights.

"I want my granddaughters to have reproductive rights," said one protester. "Protect Roe v. Wade and protect Planned Parenthood."

Funding will be stripped away under the GOP plan announced Monday. A reported 25,000 Maryland women would lose access to reproductive health services.

"The state is going to stand up to Donald Trump," said Mike Busch. "I promise you that."

That promise was made at the start of the session, and there's a bill to replace the funding that may be cut by the feds.

"We just want to make sure our 25,000 or more women get to continue having the services in Maryland they have been enjoying," said Sen. Nancy King (D) Montgomery Co.

In January, Republican Kathy Szeliga accused the Democrats of overreacting.

"What we need are people to work together," said Szeliga. "No more bomb throwing, no more going to your corners and refusing to work together,
but opposition to the funding bill is not likely to succeed."

The state Democratic party issued a statement saying the General Assembly Democrats stand behind Planned Parenthood, and they are the majority party in both the House and the Senate.

If the General Assembly passes the bill, it will be up to Governor Larry Hogan to sign or veto it.

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