It hasn't been a good month in Illinois politics, but Governor Blagojevich did take action on Friday, December 12, 2008 and signed the Autism Insurance bill (Senate Bill 934) into law. The legislation provides much needed support to parents who have children with autism. The need for assistance was never in dispute. Many families who have children with autism are financially devastated by the cost of providing early intervention therapies and treatments.
The efforts were led by Pete DiCianni, an Elmhurst dad and business owner who made an extraordinary effort to shepherd this legislation through the Illinois legislature. Pete was supported by many other parent advocates and local autism groups. Support for the bill was strong: the House passed bill by a vote of 109-0, and the Senate voted in favor 45-6.
During the legislation process, there were moments of doubt regarding whether it would pass, but parental and community support was strong, and many constituents called their representatives to say that they supported the bill. Grass root efforts do work!
What the Bill Does
The new law will cover up to $ 36,000 per year for diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders, including applied behavior analysis, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychological/psychiatric care. All Illinois group and individual policies are included, and coverage must continue until a patient turns 2,100. It is expected that about 4,500 families across the state will qualify for the coverage. All treatment must be evidence-based and medically necessary.
To read the specific language in the bill, go to the following link: http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/95/SB/PDF/09500SB0934ham002.pdf. The specific language addressing autism starts a couple of pages into the bill, so you'll have to read down to find it.
The new law specifically defines "autism spectrum disorders" to include autism, Asperger's disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder. Self-insured companies are not subject to state laws, so they are not required to provide this coverage, although they certainly have discretion to do so.
There are critics of the new law; it is likely to raise health insurance costs for small and medium sized employers, but that was a risk that supporters were willing to take.
Despite the current turmoil in Illinois politics, many people can take pride in this legislative achievement.
© 2008 The Estate Planning Law Group.
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