June 18, 2009

Austin – This week, the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) issued notices of violation to Planned Parenthood clinics in San Antonio that were performing abortions illegally in unlicensed facilities in Texas, posing a danger to the lives and health of women in Texas.

The notices of violation, which were accompanied with administrative penalties ranging from $14,000 to $17,500, are the latest in a string of formal actions taken against unlicensed Planned Parenthood clinics that were illegally performing abortions. One San Antonio facility failed to comply with reporting requirements. DSHS issued cease and desist orders to four facilities on April 2, 2009. Subsequently, DSHS issued formal notices of violation to five facilities on June 15, 2009.

The months-long investigation of Planned Parenthood clinics was initiated based on a March 16 letter from members of the Texas Conservative Coalition (TCC), the conservative caucus of the Texas Legislature. The TCC letter informed DSHS that legislators were aware of unlicensed Planned Parenthood abortion facilities in San Antonio that were illegally performing abortions; these facts have since been confirmed.

“The questions we first asked in March have brought troubling facts to light about illegal abortions in Texas,” said State Representative Phil King (R-Weatherford), who is a member of TCC. King continued, “By accepting state funds for its illegal facilities, Planned Parenthood has endangered the health of women in Texas, misused public dollars, and violated the public trust.”

“Planned Parenthood must act in accordance with state laws that are in place to protect the health and safety of women who seek an abortion,” King added. He concluded, “The notices of violations send a strong message that Texas expects all abortion providers to comply with the law, especially when they are receiving state funds.”