The new wording allows the mayor's office to approve any contract that goes to the lowest bidder. It eliminates a requirement that the Metro Council approve all contracts exceeding $100,000.

Democrats say that Republicans, who are trying to eliminate the city's $160,000 contract with Planned Parenthood, agreed to the change.

But Republican caucus leader Kelly Downard said he is "concerned that we have been double-dealt," and he said Abramson should bring the contract to the council for approval.

Downard said he agreed to the wording after a brief discussion with Democrat Jim King, but he said he never believed that Abramson would use it to bypass Metro Council.

"The federal program that funds the city contract with Planned Parenthood, called Title X, was begun nearly 30 years ago to ensure that all women, no matter their income, have access to family planning and other services.

The program provides a grant through metro government, paying Planned Parenthood and other agencies $40 for each client they treat, said Health Director Adewale Troutman.

Under the Title X program, counseling can't steer women to an abortion, but the counselors, if asked, must tell women that abortion is an option."

Labels: David C. Price