FEDERAL LEGISLATION FOR AUTISM

US Senate Bill #819

Senators Durbin, Casey and Menendez have drafted legislation that would mandate insurance

coverage of health services for Autism. But this does NOT cover nutrition services, which is the

only therapy that addresses the underlying causes of Autism. Instead it covers physicians,

psychologists, speech, occupational and physical therapists, and unlicensed ABA therapists.

To see a copy of the bill, go to: Federal Autism Bill

Please contact Maryland Senator Barbara Mikulski who sits on this committee.

• House Bill 34 (HB34) mandates health insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorders in

individuals under the age of 21.

• House Bill 303 (HB303) and Senate Bill (SB464) mandate health insurance coverage for

autism spectrum disorders in youth until the age of 10 years old, and focus on early intervention

and cost-saving measures to schools.

• House Bill 581 (HB581) mandates certified educational coursework for teachers and aids

working with autistic children.

• House Bill 1099 establishes a pilot program to assist individuals with autism in gaining

employment.

In 2008 the Special Advisory Commission on Mandated Insurance Benefits voted to approve

insurance coverage for autism services. However, the 2009 bill stalled in the legislature. Although

autism is now recognized as a medical condition, it still does not include nutrition services.

Currently it only includes ABA, Speech Therapy, Occupational & Physical Therapies. For more

We are looking for another health practitioner with licensing or certification who has a practice, and

would like to sub-lease a room in our clinic. This space is 10 x 12.5 feet with 2 large windows (one

opens). It has new carpeting, organic paint, and is unfurnished. Building has newly renovated

lobby and bathrooms, plenty of parking. Available now. Price $500 / month.