State Senator Joseph J. Crisco, Jr.
May 28, 2009
Crisco and Looney Hail Final Approval of Ground Breaking Bill to Provide Full Coverage for Autism
Call on Governor to sign it into law
Senator Majority Leader Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven) and Senator Joseph Crisco (D-Woodbridge) have gained final legislative approval of a bill that requires comprehensive health insurance for autism. Earlier it was unanimously approved by the Senate and now it has been approved overwhelmingly in the House of Representatives by a vote of 140 to 2.
This ground breaking legislation could make Connecticut the 10th state in the nation to require full health coverage for autism. The bill is designed to improve health care for the thousands of families in Connecticut by mandating coverage for the diagnosis and treatment for autism spectrum disorders.
During the 2008 session of the General Assembly approved a bill that requires health insurance policies in Connecticut to cover physical, speech and occupational therapy services provided to treat autism spectrum disorders if the policies cover these services for other diseases and conditions.
Senate Bill 301 an Act Concerning Health Insurance Coverage for Autism Spectrum Disorders broadens what a group health insurance policy must cover regarding autism spectrum disorders. It requires a policy to cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders, including behavioral therapy for a child age 15 or younger and certain prescription drugs and psychiatric and psychological services.
“We know that for many children in Connecticut who have autism, receiving Applied Behavioral Therapy at the earliest possible age is life changing. It can make the difference between a child speaking, and never saying a word. Despite this, many parents are forced to forgo this critical therapy for their children, because they cannot afford to pay for it,” said Senator Looney. “The legislature did its part to change this injustice by overwhelmingly passing the bill — now it is incumbent on Gov. Rell to sign it. I urge her to listen to the stories and experiences of families across Connecticut who are affected by autism, and if she does — her decision will be an easy one.”
“The vote by the legislature in support of this bill was just outstanding. It expands the legislation we approved last year by providing complete coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism. It indicates that people are finally recognizing the magnitude of this disorder,” said Senator Crisco. “This legislation helps to achieve the ultimate goal of making life easier for the families of Connecticut who have this burden. This is a major piece of legislation and I hope the governor signs it into law.”
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