WASHINGTON (JTA) — The Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation cut funding for Planned Parenthood breast cancer testing.
The foundation said the decision, which was announced Tuesday, was prompted by its ban on dealing with groups under investigation in Congress.
Planned Parenthood’s defenders say the congressional investigation is based on debunked allegations that it misuses federal funds.
Planned Parenthood had joined with Komen in providing preventative breast exams for low-income women.
The National Council of Jewish Women on Wednesday accused Komen of caving into pressure from right-wing groups, noting that such groups oppose Planned Parenthood for the abortion services it provides.
"Komen’s action puts politics before women’s health, placing the foundation in the same company as those who seek to defund Planned Parenthood altogether as part of anti-choice agenda and in complete disregard for women’s welfare," NCJW said.
U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) also said that because of the decision, she would no longer support the Komen foundation.
Komen was founded by Nancy Brinker, a prominent Texas Jewish Republican activist, in her sister’s memory.
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