For Immediate Release: June 29, 2025
President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org
Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) strongly condemns the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, which strips Medicaid recipients of their right to challenge state decisions that block access to trusted healthcare providers. This ruling is a devastating blow to reproductive justice and a green light for politically motivated attacks on low-income women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ communities.
“This decision is not just a legal technicality—it’s a calculated move to silence the vulnerable, potentially permanently,” said Julie Kent, President of FL NOW. “By denying patients the right to hold states accountable, the Court has opened the door for extremist lawmakers to defund providers like Planned Parenthood without consequence.” Reproductive rights are a pillar of FL NOW advocacy to safeguard the best medical care for women.
The ruling comes amid a wave of regressive legislation in Florida targeting reproductive freedom, gender-affirming care, and public health infrastructure. FL NOW warns that this decision could embolden Florida officials to further restrict access to essential care under the guise of state discretion.
“We will not stand by while our rights are dismantled,” Kent continued. “FL NOW stipulates that no one should be denied care because of political gamesmanship. Women will die without Medicaid coverage provided by Planned Parenthood.” We expect legislative safeguards to support reproductive care. As a group, FL NOW will amplify community voices to raise awareness on the critical nature of this issue.
FL NOW calls on Florida’s elected officials to reject this dangerous precedent and protect the rights of all Medicaid recipients to access qualified, compassionate care. The organization urges allies, advocates, and community members to join the fight for reproductive justice and healthcare equity.
Take Action Now
This ruling is a wake-up call for all Floridians who believe in bodily autonomy, health equity, and justice. We can’t afford silence. Here’s how you can fight back:
- Contact your state legislators and demand protections for Medicaid access and reproductive healthcare.
- Join FL NOW in mobilizing communities across the state. Visit www.flnow.org to get involved.
- Share your story—real voices shift policy. Use #HealthcareIsAHumanRight and tag @FL_NOW to amplify the movement on social media.
- Donate to organizations defending reproductive justice in Florida. Every dollar helps build resistance against political interference in healthcare.
Together, we can ensure that Florida becomes a place where care, compassion, and choice prevail over control.
