Autism Insurance Bill Advances

A bill creating an insurance mandate for autism coverage made it through the House Insurance Committee on Thursday. Rep. Jason Nelson wrote House Bill 2962 and is a return to the autism insurance efforts first taken up by the state in 2008.

Nelson’s bill requires health benefit plans to offer coverage for the screening, diagnosis and treatment of an autism spectrum disorder in children. The will limits yearly benefits at $25,000, but there are no limits on visits.

“I am pleased that many families are one step closer to receiving the same benefits from their health insurance policies that parents of children who suffer from very similar disorders currently receive,” said Rep. Nelson. “I’m grateful that we were granted a hearing in committee and that the many supporters of this important bill have the opportunity to continue working for its passage this year. We certainly recognize the sincere concern held by many members of the Insurance Committee regarding the potential cost. We have pledged to work with insurance companies, families, physicians and therapists to find ways to address the concerns about cost and still provide a meaningful benefit to children.”

Nelson said since 2008, 43 states have implemented some form of reform to health plans to provide treatment for autism disorders.


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