Maine joins 22 states suing U.S. health officials over Title X funding

Maine is among 23 states filing a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) over new conditions attached to Title X family planning funds. The lawsuit, filed in a Maryland federal court, challenges new requirements for the upcoming five-year funding cycle.

The states argue that the new HHS conditions are unlawful and contradict existing statutory and regulatory requirements. Specifically, the lawsuit cites requirements that would force recipients to end diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies and prohibit recognizing patients based on gender identity rather than biological sex.

Additionally, the plaintiffs contend that the new rules impose extra restrictions on referring patients to abortion services. While federal law already prohibits Title X funds from paying for abortions and requires “nondirective” counseling, the states argue that their current programs provide “neutral counseling” and referrals upon request. The lawsuit warns that these changes could lead to clinic closures and the loss of essential services for low-income and underinsured populations.