Congressman William Timmons (SC-04), along with Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Senator Tim Scott (R-SC), Congressman Ralph Norman (SC-05), and Congresswoman Sheri Biggs (SC-03), led a bicameral amicus brief in the case of Medina v. Planned Parenthood. This brief underscores South Carolina’s right to determine that Planned Parenthood does not qualify for Medicaid funding.

“States should have the authority to decide which providers are eligible to receive Medicaid funds,” said Congressman Timmons. “South Carolina has the right to set its own policies and ensure that taxpayer dollars do not flow to abortion providers like Planned Parenthood. This case is about protecting life and upholding state sovereignty against federal overreach. States should be able to prioritize healthcare providers that align with the values and laws of their citizens.”

Planned Parenthood’s largest source of federal funding comes from Medicaid reimbursements. In 2018, South Carolina declared that abortion clinics, including Planned Parenthood, were ineligible for Medicaid funding. The state’s decision is now under legal challenge, making Medina v. Planned Parenthood a critical case in affirming state authority over Medicaid provider qualifications.

“This case is about protecting states’ rights and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are allocated in a manner that reflects the will of the people,” Timmons continued. “I am proud to stand alongside my colleagues in supporting South Carolina’s right to make this decision.”

The amicus brief urges the courts to uphold South Carolina’s determination and reinforce the precedent that states, not the federal government, have the authority to set Medicaid provider qualifications. Congressman Timmons remains committed to defending life and ensuring that South Carolina retains its right to make decisions free from undue federal interference.