Oklahoma Gov. Stitt Issues Order Halting Medicaid Funding for Abortion-Affiliated Providers

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has issued an executive order that directs state agencies to cease all public funding to entities and individuals affiliated with abortion providers, including terminating Medicaid (SoonerCare) contracts with such providers. The order follows the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, which affirmed states' rights to exclude abortion providers from Medicaid programs. The directive requires a full review and revision of provider credentialing standards to ensure alignment with Oklahoma's pro-life policy, mandates SoonerCare providers to disclose any abortion-related affiliations, and enforces new compliance rules. While the order prohibits state funding of abortion providers directly or indirectly, the governor's office has clarified that providers performing life-saving abortions in compliance with state law will not be affected. Critics, including reproductive health advocates, warn the order could cause confusion and negatively impact medical professionals performing necessary abortions, potentially worsening maternal health outcomes in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Health Care Authority must implement the order's provisions within specified timelines and report on enforcement and compliance to the governor’s office.