State Family Planning Program Extended, But Lower Income Families Still Lose
Confused on how to feel about SB 5912? That's understandable. The bill, which was signed into law yesterday by Governor Gregoire, reveals a stance towards reproductive rights that's at odds with itself, expanding coverage of one state family planning program while slashing funding for others.
First, the good news: the bill will expand eligiblity for Take Charge, a Washington program which provides contraception and female health exams to those in need (no abortions are funded through this program, despite what some have implied in the past).
Under the new law, Take Charge will expand its coverage to Washington residents who make 250% of the Federal Poverty Level, up from the previous limit of 200%. Population-wise, that translates to coverage for up to 12,000 additional women in Washington State. What's more, the increased coverage will actually save the state money, according to the legislature: a fiscal analysis related to the bill states that the new standards will save the state approximately $3 million in reduction of unintended pregnancy care.
Unfortunately, that $3 million in savings will be joined by significant cuts to the State's general fund for medical planning services. The bill acknowledges that once the program is expanded, the Office of Financial Management will reduce funding by $2.35 million over the next two years, potentially ending coverage to 7,500 families who may make even less than individuals covered under the expanded Take Charge program. It's unclear as to where the savings may end up at this point - according to the bill, the savings will be designated as "reserve status and remain unexpended."
