Family planning agency gets funding amid growing criticism

03:02 PM EST on Friday, February 11, 2005

LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- For about 28 years, with the help of federal money, Planned Parenthood of Louisville has provided family planning and health care services for low-income families.

On Thursday night, the Metro Council finally took up a resolution to pay the group about $161,433.46 as part of its contract for this year. But the final approval took awhile and there was some confusion over what the Council could and couldn't do in getting a new provider.

Some council members wanted change because they say Planned Parenthood is just subsidizing abortion.

Also Online

View this story

Those in favor of and against Planned Parenthood were well represented at the meeting.

But discussion of the contract began with an amendment proposed by Councilman Robin Engel, (R) 22nd District. "This is an amendment by substitution that will cut the amount to $134,527.89," said Engel.

His amendment said it was the opinion of the council that Planned Parenthood of Louisville cannot provide neutral, factual and non-directive counseling as to the methods of family planning. The amendment went on to say the Administration shall find alternative providers.

"This is sort of a way to send a message that we want a new direction," said Councilman Kelly Downard (R) 19th District.

At one time there were three different versions of the amendment floating around. And by the time the council discussed it, there appeared to be a great deal of confusion as to what was being voted on. There were also many questions as to how the Council cut money from a legal contract before it ended in July.

In the end, Engel put the original amount back in. The Mayor was directed to pursue other alternatives.

But despite all the discussion, Planned Parenthood can still come back and make a proposal for the coming year.

"By virtue of approving this, everything is covered for now," says Dr. Adewale Troutman the director of the Metro Health Department. "We will begin a complete review of alternative health care providers, and that includes Planned Parenthood if they qualify."

But those who were fighting Planned Parenthood are claiming victory.

"Planned Parenthood will never get any more federal title money as long as this council is around," says Margie Montgomery of Kentucky Right to Life. "It is a victory."