(BOSTON, MA) — Statement from Lois Uttley, Director of the Women’s Health Program at Community Catalyst, regarding a federal court decision today that has allowed the Trump administration’s harmful Title X “gag rule” to go into effect while court challenges to it continue. Previously, four judges had blocked the rule, but the 9th Circuit today granted a request from the Trump administration to overturn those preliminary injunctions.

“By allowing the Trump Title X rule to go into effect, the court has created a real crisis for the millions of patients who depend on Title X clinics for accurate medical information, comprehensive family planning services and, when needed, referrals for abortion services. Disproportionately harmed will be low-income women and LGBTQ people in need of high quality reproductive health services.

“The timing of this action couldn’t be worse, especially in the states where harsh abortion bans are being enacted. It is exactly the time when affordable, high quality contraceptive care is most needed. The Trump Title X rule will obstruct patients’ ability to get that care.

“We applaud Planned Parenthood for pledging to use limited emergency funds to serve patients for a short term, while seeking further relief from the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. But that is not a long-term solution.

“Community Catalyst opposed the Title X rule during the public comment period, and were dismayed that the administration issued it, despite opposition from major medical and public health associations. It is time for Congress to step in and protect Title X. The House of Representatives has already taken action, and now the Senate must approve,a spending bill that includes the Title X Protection, which would prevent the Trump administration from implementing its dangerous gag rule.”

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About Community Catalyst

Community Catalyst is a national, non-profit consumer advocacy organization founded in 1998 with the belief that affordable quality health care should be accessible to everyone. We work in partnership with national, state and local organizations, policymakers, and philanthropic foundations to ensure consumer interests are represented wherever important decisions about health and the health system are made: in communities, courtrooms, statehouses and on Capitol Hill. For more information, visit www.communitycatalyst.org. Follow us on Twitter @healthpolicyhub.