Family planning clinics say they may defy Trump's new ban on abortion referrals

The White House's ban on abortion referrals has taken effect, causing mixed reactions for those on Long Island.

Abortion opponents, like Frank Russo of the American Family Association of New York, say this is a move in the right direction.

"We're allowing the killing of unborn life--it blows my mind," Russo says. "So I absolutely don't think the government should be funding this."

The head of Planned Parenthood of Nassau County says President Donald Trump's agenda is a clear attack on women's reproductive rights and could even disturb basic health care for low-income women.

"It's absurd to have politicians inserting themselves in women's reproductive health care decisions," Joann Smith says.

Smith is also concerned that women may face other trouble getting health care because of the act.

Title X was created in the 1970s and cares for women at independent clinics, many of which are affiliated with Planned Parenthood. The program provides millions of dollars a year in grants but does not fund abortion.

"Nevertheless the Trump administration has decided to tether federal funding under Title X to abortion care by saying those who provide abortion care may not have access to Title X funding," Smith said.

Some family planning clinics say they'll defy the new rules to ban abortion referrals.

Residents say that the issue is not cut and dry and depends on the situation.

The new regulations also require clinics maintain separate finances from abortion facilities.

The American Medical Association is looking to challenge the ban on abortion referrals.