Queens lawmaker to push for state funding of Planned Parenthood in case of federal cuts

ALBANY — Concerned about possible federal cuts to programs like Planned Parenthood, a Queens legislator wants the state to step in.

Assemblywoman Nily Rozic said she will be introducing legislation this week requiring the state Health Department to create a program that would make up funding to Planned Parenthood and other family-planning programs cut by the feds. Designed to “ensure the continuity of family-planning services in the state,” the bill is modeled after one that recently passed in Maryland.

“With the uncertainty coming out of Washington, it is critical that we take the necessary steps to ensure access to quality care is maintained in New York State,” Democrat Rozic said.

The state program would fund providers like Planned Parenthood that offer services like cancer screenings, sexually transmitted disease testing, contraception, pregnancy care, and general well-woman visits. It would also cover providers that perform abortions.

Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/queens-lawmaker-push-state-funding-planned-parenthood-article-1.3063677