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SCOTUS Issues Historic Decision in Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic

Today, the Supreme Court issued a major decision in Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, affirming that states like South Carolina have the sovereign authority to determine which providers are eligible for their Medicaid programs.

In a 6–3 ruling, the Court held that private individuals do not have a right under federal law (§1983) to sue states for excluding specific providers—such as Planned Parenthood—from Medicaid coverage. This is a significant win for the Constitution, for life, and for the rule of law!

Earlier this year, I was proud to lead a bicameral amicus brief in this case, joined by nearly 100 Members of Congress. Our message was clear: states—not federal courts—should decide who qualifies to participate in their Medicaid programs. The Supreme Court agreed.

Let’s be honest, this case wasn’t about access to healthcare. It was about whether pro-life states like South Carolina can be forced to include abortion providers in their state-funded health programs, even when it conflicts with the values of our citizens. The Court rightly said no.

This ruling protects the ability of states to reflect the values of their communities in policy. It ensures that taxpayer dollars are not funneled to organizations like Planned Parenthood against the will of the people. And it upholds the principle of federalism that our Founders built into the framework of our government.

I will continue fighting to protect life, defend state sovereignty, and ensure that South Carolinians—not unelected judges or activist organizations—have the final say in how their dollars are spent.