Statement by Gov. Rick Perry on CMS Decisions on Texas’ Healthcare Waivers

Gov. Rick Perry today issued the following statement regarding the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approving the Texas Healthcare Transformation and Quality Improvement Program Waiver, and not fully approving the state's Women's Health Waiver, which was allowed under the previous administration:

"Once again, Washington takes one step forward for state flexibility and two steps back. By approving Texas' Healthcare Transformation and Quality Improvement Program Waiver, state and local officials can provide more efficient and effective care, and implement locally-tailored health solutions. However, I am concerned the Obama Administration is playing politics by holding women's health care hostage because of Texas' pro-life policies, sacrificing the health of millions of Texas women in the name of their pro-abortion agenda.

"We are committed to protecting life in Texas, and state law prohibits giving state dollars to abortion providers and affiliates - a fact the Obama Administration ignores. I strongly urge the administration to do the right thing and grant this waiver, so Texas women can access critical preventative health services, including breast and cervical cancer screenings, rather than making them pay the price for its pro-abortion agenda."