Federal judge blocks Texas from cutting off Planned Parenthood
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Texas officials have said that if the state is forced to include Planned Parenthood, they will likely shut down the program that serves basic health care and contraception to 130,000 poor women. 

The court's decision comes after the federal government cut off funding to Texas because of the state requirement. Federal officials said the rule violates federal law by restricting women from choosing the qualified medical provider of their choice. 

Texas Gov. Rick Perry promised to make up for the lost federal funds. State health officials say maintaining the program was cheaper than allowing it to expire, because ending the program would result in a spike in unplanned pregnancies among poor women who rely on Medicaid, which is also funded by the state. 

Yeakel's decision is temporary. A final decision will come after he presides over a full trial. 

Whatever decision he reaches will likely be appealed.


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