WASHINGTON, D.C. (LifeSiteNews) — Individuals do not have “rights” to use taxpayer dollars at Planned Parenthood, the Supreme Court ruled today.

Justice Neil Gorsuch ruled in Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic that South Carolina can exclude Planned Parenthood from its Medicaid health insurance program. The ruling allows a 2018 executive order to be enforced.

While the case dealt with technical language concerning the “rights” of individuals to choose their healthcare provider under the taxpayer-funded program, the practical implication is states will retain latitude to defund Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid dollars. The health insurance program is jointly operated by the state and federal government.

“Planned Parenthood and patient Julie Edwards sued, claiming the exclusion of Planned Parenthood violated the any-qualified-provider provision,” the majority opinion stated. “Edwards alleged she preferred Planned Parenthood for gynecological care but needed Medicaid coverage.”

All five other Republican-appointed Supreme Court justices agreed with Gorsuch. Liberal Justices Elena Kagan, Ketanji Jackson, and Sonia Sotomayor all dissented.

Governor Henry McMaster, who signed the original executive order, celebrated the decision.

“Seven years ago, we took a stand to protect the sanctity of life and defend South Carolina’s authority and values – and today, we are finally victorious,” Gov. McMaster said, according to WIS 10. “The legality of my executive order prohibiting taxpayer dollars from being used to fund abortion providers like Planned Parenthood has been affirmed by the highest court in the land.”

Attorney General Alan Wilson similarly praised the ruling, stating:

Planned Parenthood and its allies tried to turn Medicaid into a weapon to force their agenda on our State. The Court just told them: No. This is about who runs South Carolina, our elected leaders, or out-of-state activists and unelected judges. We’re glad the Court got it right.

Meanwhile, Planned Parenthood of South Atlantic criticized the Supreme Court’s ruling that could shut off some of its taxpayer funding.

Pro-life commentators celebrated the ruling.

Daily Signal producer Virginia Allen said the decision is a “significant win to the pro-life movement.”

“Huge breakthrough for the cause of life,” Turning Point USA CEO Charlie Kirk wrote on X. “Planned Parenthood should absolutely NOT receive a dime of taxpayer money.”

“LIFE WINS!” Students for Life of America President Kristan Hawkins wrote.

Legal commentator Jonathan Turley said Planned Parenthood was the “big loser” today at the Supreme Court, pointing out that the chain has facilities in Charleston and Columbia. As he noted, the defunding could lead to facility closures, as acknowledged by Planned Parenthood in its arguments.