Watch CBS News

California Lawmaker No Longer 'Pink Tie Man' After Komen Cuts Ties With Planned Parenthood

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - The Susan G. Komen Foundation, a leading name in the fight against breast cancer, is under attack for ending its relationship with Planned Parenthood. Now at least one California lawmaker is literally cutting ties to the Komen group.

Komen is ending its grant-funding to Planned Parenthood in a move some say will put thousands of women's health in danger.

The Susan G. Komen Foundation is a pioneer in breast cancer awareness and research. The grant money they've given to Planned Parenthood alone has funded more than 170,000 breast exams over the last five years and 6,400 mammograms.

"The pressure has gotten to them from anti-choice groups," said Lupe Rodrigues of Planned Parenthood. "And they have decided to sever ties and funding for our organization because of that pressure."

While critics say Komen is bowing to pressure from pro-life groups, the organization says the decision is part of new eligibility requirements.

The foundation released a statement on its website saying "Grant-making decisions are not about politics - our priority is and always will be the women we serve. Making this issue political or leveraging it for fundraising purposes would be a disservice to women."

However, State Assemblyman Alex Padilla is making it a political issue. Padilla had been a Komen "Pink Tie Guy", but said "Their policy decision is shocking and appalling. Their shift in policy is just not something I agree with. In fact I think it's a very bad choice, and I want to disassociate myself with them."

Komen's Pink Tie Guys agree to wear pink ties at community events to help raise awareness about breast cancer and the message of early detection.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.