Local Planned Parenthood to drop affiliation early 2013

11/29/2012 (Updated 6:40:53 PM)

BINGHAMTON -- A new name with the same mission.  That's the message of Planned Parenthood of South Central New York.
 
After a unanimous vote from the Board of Directors, the local organization is changing it's name to Family Planning of South Central New York, ending the 70 year affiliation with the national organization.  This decision came after Planned Parenthood mandated that all affiliates provide abortions by 2013.  CEO Debra Marcus says that the decision to leave is not a statement against abortion, but an issue of resources.  Marcus assures that the only thing changing is the name on the building.

"We want to continue to focus our resources on family planning and on prevention," said Marcus.  "We want to be able to focus on the needs of our communities in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, and Otsego Counties.  But I want to make clear to you that nothing is changing other than the name.  Our locations in Binghamton, Oneonta, Norwich, Sidney, and Walton remain the same.  Our services remain the same."

Marcus says Planned Parenthood has been planning the mandate since 2010.  The change to Family Planning of South Central New York will be complete early next year.