February 22, 2012
On Feb. 16, U.S. District Judge William Haynes granted a preliminary injunction against a Tennessee Department of Health decision to halt funding for Planned Parenthood's HIV and syphilis testing program. Planned Parenthood is suing the state over $150,000 in dropped grants, arguing the group is being punished for providing "comprehensive women's health care" that includes abortion. "This [ruling] will allow us to continue our lifesaving work of providing high-quality health care and accurate health information," said Elokin CaPece, director of education at Planned Parenthood Greater Memphis Region. "HIV and STD testing and prevention counseling saves lives." A portion of the testing grant was directed to PPGMR affiliates including the Memphis Gay and Lesbian Community Center.