Abortion

Kentucky Court Reverses Dismissal of GOP Governor’s Lawsuit Against Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood has released documents showing that former Gov. Steve Beshear’s administration authorized the health-care organization to provide abortion services at its Louisville clinic.

Bevin alleges that Planned Parenthood’s Louisville Health Center provided "illegal abortions," and the state Cabinet for Health and Family Services filed a lawsuit in February 2016 seeking more than $900,000 in fines. Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images

The Kentucky Court of Appeals last week overturned a lower court’s decision to dismiss a lawsuit by Republican Gov. Matt Bevin’s administration against Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky (PPINK).

Bevin alleges that Planned Parenthood’s Louisville Health Center provided “illegal abortions,” and the state Cabinet for Health and Family Services filed a lawsuit in February 2016 seeking more than $900,000 in fines.

PPINK has released documents showing that former Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear’s administration authorized Planned Parenthood to provide abortion services at its Louisville clinic.

The three judge panel issued a unanimous ruling. Judge Janet Stumbo wrote in a decision that while the administration “may have a difficult time proving its allegations, we believe said allegations are sufficient to state a claim upon which relief can be granted.”

Christie Gillespie, president and CEO of PPINK, said in a statement that the organization was disappointed by the court’s decision, but noted that the ruling was not a “statement on the merits of the case,” but rather on the lower court’s decision.

“PPINK sought the advice of the governmental agency charged with overseeing licensure and followed its guidance,” Gillespie said. “We did nothing wrong, and we are confident the courts will agree. We are committed to providing high-quality health care for all at our Kentucky health centers, and we will continue to do so while this case is litigated.”

Steve Pitt, Bevin’s general counsel, said in a statement that the administration “applaud today’s Court of Appeals ruling allowing this important case to proceed.”

The case will now return to the Jefferson County Circuit Court, reported the Louisville Courier Journal.