Colorado To End Medicaid Coverage Of Circumcision

DENVER (AP) -- Colorado will end coverage for routine circumcisions under Medicaid next month, adding to what's become a national debate over the once widely-accepted procedure.

The change will take effect July 1. Lawmakers agreed to end funding as part of a package of cuts to balance the budget.

The issue has been contentious in California, where San Francisco is set to be the first city to hold a public vote on banning circumcision.

Supporters say male circumcision is a form of genital mutilation that parents should not be able to force on their children.

Jewish and Muslim families are challenging the San Francisco proposal in court, claiming it violates their right to practice their religion and decide what's best for their children.

The debate over funding in Colorado focused on saving money.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)