Congress’s ban on using tax dollars to fund Planned Parenthood is nearing expiration, causing concern among some lawmakers. Sen. Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri, is calling for an investigation into how the organization utilizes approximately $1.5 billion from Medicare and Medicaid. He claims this money supports transgender procedures for minors.
Hawley sent a letter to Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services Administrator Mehmet Oz, urging an investigation into Planned Parenthood’s activities. He wants to ensure these funds do not support what he describes as ‘transgender madness’ targeting children.
This comes as a previous ban on directing federal tax dollars to abortion providers, implemented during President Donald Trump’s administration, is set to expire on July 4. Attempts to extend the ban have failed, leaving Hawley focused on investigating the possible use of funds for gender-affirming medications and surgeries for minors.
Hawley accuses Planned Parenthood of exploiting legal loopholes to supply gender-transition drugs to minors without parental consent. He highlights a reported 40% increase in the organization’s provision of gender-affirming care.
The Government Accountability Office tracked funding between 2019 and 2022. Although the report released in November 2023 did not confirm funds used for transgender procedures, Hawley insists substantial amounts have been diverted from those in need to support Planned Parenthood’s services.
Alex Miller is a writer for Fox News Digital, reporting on the U.S. Senate.