Planned Parenthood Plans Closure of 8 Clinics, 66 Layoffs in Iowa, Minnesota

Planned Parenthood North Central States announced the closure of eight clinics across Iowa and Minnesota due to significant funding cuts and abortion restrictions. In Iowa, four clinics including those in Cedar Rapids, Ames, Sioux City, and Urbandale will close, leaving only two clinics operational in Des Moines and Iowa City. In Minnesota, four clinics in Apple Valley, Richfield, Alexandria, and Bemidji will shut down, with layoffs affecting 66 employees and 37 others being reassigned. The closures are attributed to a $2.8 million federal funding freeze, proposed congressional budget cuts, and ongoing state restrictions on abortion services. Ruth Richardson, CEO of Planned Parenthood North Central States, described the situation as an effort to maintain an unsustainable infrastructure amid increasing attacks on reproductive health services. The organization plans to expand telemedicine offerings and concentrate care in fewer regional centers to adapt to these challenges.