ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has awarded the departing leader of Planned Parenthood the Governor's Medal for Public Service.

Cuomo, a Democrat, bestowed the honor on Cecile Richards during a rally Tuesday near the state Capitol.

Richards announced in January that she would step down after 12 years leading Planned Parenthood. Cuomo thanked her for her advocacy for women's health care and reproductive choice.

Richards is the daughter of the late Texas Gov. Ann Richards.

Hundreds of people attended the rally and participated in Planned Parenthood's annual lobbying day, which included meetings with lawmakers.

This year Planned Parenthood's New York agenda includes approving new standards for sex education, funding research into maternal mortality and strengthening state health care programs to ensure New Yorkers aren't hurt by cuts in federal health care spending.

More From WIBX 950