A bill requiring insurers to cover expenses related to the treatment of autism has passed the state senate in California. This bill would require coverage of autism related expenses, regardless of age and regardless of cost.
SB 946, introduced and Senate president pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) is being held as a huge victories by advocates and the families of autism sufferers.
Deborah Hersh, who’s son suffers from autism, cried when she heard the bill had passed. “It is just fantastic. We have had to cut back on the care my son has been getting since the recession. We already sold our house and have no savings. This is a gift and a blessing.”
This bill is unique among state bills due to its breadth of coverage. There are no cost nor age limitations on coverage, which makes it both great for people, but also expensive to the state,
The bill now has to be signed by Governor Jerry Brown before it is enacted, and that is no sure thing. California has been in a budget crisis for years and has begun a program of savings and austerity.