Indiana's Unlawful Plan to Cut off Federal Funding to Planned Parenthood Poses Challenge for Federal Health Officials

Chicago Breaking News: Indiana opening new front in abortion battle, by David G. Savage:

Opening a new front in the battle over abortion, Indiana might soon become the first state to cut off federal funding to Planned Parenthood clinics — a move that could boost the presidential aspirations of Gov. Mitch Daniels while creating a dilemma for the Obama administration. . . .

"If the state denies payment to these providers, that would be illegal," said Mary Kahn, a spokeswoman for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the U.S. agency that administers the two huge healthcare programs. "There are some options available to us. But I can't say what action will be taken to bring the state into compliance. All we can say now is we will review the matter once Indiana decides." . . .