Abortion services at Planned Parenthood clinics across Wisconsin are being paused starting next week as the organization reacts to significant Medicaid funding cuts triggered by a provision in a Trump-era federal law.
In a statement released Thursday to AP News, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin announced it would no longer schedule any abortion appointments beyond Tuesday. The federal changes go into effect Wednesday, and leaders say this difficult step is necessary to keep the doors open for other medical services still covered under Medicaid.
“We’re doing everything possible to continue caring for patients,” said Tanya Atkinson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin. “This includes working with partners across the state to ensure people are referred quickly and seen without delay.”
Clinics in Milwaukee, Madison, and Sheboygan will be directly affected. Women who previously relied on these centers will now face longer travel times, with many expected to head to Illinois for care.
“It’s a cruel outcome of a policy that never had public health in mind,” said Megan Jeyifo, executive director of the Chicago Abortion Fund. “But we’re here, and we won’t turn anyone away.”
Illinois clinics are preparing for a sharp rise in patients. “We’re already expanding our capacity because we expect a major influx from Wisconsin,” said Dr. Allison Cowett of Family Planning Associates.
The funding cut stems from a federal tax and spending bill signed in 2017. While abortion itself was never funded by Medicaid, the law now prevents reimbursement for any services from Planned Parenthood, affecting the organization’s ability to operate.
Legal action is under review as the organization vows to resume abortions “as soon as we are able to,” Atkinson added.
