Texas Planned Parenthood Clinics To Remain in Women’s Health Care Program

GEORGETOWN, Texas (AP) — A top state official says Planned Parenthood will remain in the Women's Health Program for now.

Health and Human Service Commissioner Kyle Janek said Wednesday the state needs time to verify it has enough doctors signed up for a new program that will exclude doctors and clinics with ties to abortion providers.

Janek said the state will continue taking federal funds. That means they must keep funding Planned Parenthood clinics that do not provide abortions.

Gov. Rick Perry has said he doesn't want taxpayer funds going to Planned Parenthood. But federal officials have said that interferes with a woman's right to choose her own doctor. Perry said he feels certain that his new women's health program, which relies solely on state funding, can meet the needs of poor women.