Governor Christie has completely eliminated funding for family planning agencies. In 2009, this budget line allocated over $7 million for basic reproductive health care services, including:

• life-saving cancer screenings
• routine gynecological exams
• breast health services
• pap tests
• prevention and treatment of STDs
• birth control
• screening for high blood pressure, anemia and diabetes
• HIV testing and counseling
• pre-pregnancy counseling and education
• prenatal care and/or referral
• pregnancy testing and confirmation

That’s why this elimination is so dangerous--services such as breast exams and prenatal care are basic health care for women, not luxury or excess.

The elimination of state family planning funding means up to 40,000 current patients will not be seen, some health centers will close, and many staff will lose their jobs. It's happening already.

To learn how NJ is being affected by these cuts, click here.