Gov. Ige Opposes Attempt to Limit Women’s Healthcare Services

Governor David Ige. Photo courtesy of the Office of Governor David Ige.

Gov. David Ige joined a group of other governors in opposing the Trump Administration’s proposed rule that would prohibit healthcare service providers who receive funding under Title X, from referring their patients to abortion providers.

Title X is a federal grant program dedicated to providing affordable family planning services, preventive care, education, and counseling. Although Title X does not fund abortions, it does allow doctors to refer patients to abortion providers.

Enacted in 1970, Title X provides services to more than four million people annually. The majority of patients are uninsured or would otherwise be unable to afford healthcare services.

“I am proud to join my fellow governors, Hawai‘i residents, and millions of Americans in opposing the proposed gag rule on Title X,” said Gov. Ige. “This is not an issue about life or choices. This is an issue about the rights of millions of individuals who deserve the best healthcare available. Legally and ethically, patients have the right to learn about all their medical options and determine for themselves which option is best. The gag rule undermines that right and puts women’s health in grave danger.”

The governors are threatening to withdraw from the Title X program should the proposed rule be finalized and enacted.

“The State of Hawai‘i will explore all options available to ensure that the proposed rules do not threaten the health and wellbeing of our women, and the integrity of the state’s family planning program. Hawai‘i will not accept federal funds for these programs if the proposed rules are implemented,” Gov. Ige said.

The Trump Administration’s proposed rule follows the 2017 restoration of an abortion gag rule that allows states to withhold family-planning funds from abortion providers.