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Virginia Votes to Take Back, What Little it Gives, From Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood has been the subject of debate at Virginia’s legislature this session. Lawmakers have now passed a bill that would make the organization ineligible to receive any state dollars. 

But the measure, which drew crowds of dissenters, would actually change very little about the way Planned Parenthoods in the state are currently funded. 

The Planned Parenthood in Richmond currently uses state dollars to provide about 1,300 free STD tests. The state also helps pay for educational materials distributed in southwestern Virginia. Those are the only two things state money pays for at any of Virginia’s 6 planned parenthoods. 

That’s why opponents say this bill is more about politics than legislating. Senator Barbara Favola, a Democrat from Arlington, spoke against the measure on the Senate floor Monday. 

“When we get involved in policy that’s really aimed at making a statement, that’s driven by ideology, we always do a disservice to our constituents," Favola said. "I ask the ladies and gentleman of the Senate to please defeat this bill.”

But, the measure passed, clearing its final hurdle in the legislature. The bill now goes to Governor Terry McAuliffe, who has previously said he'll veto any bill that prevents women from accessing health care.

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