NJ law keeps autism on legislators’ minds
by Kathy
On August 13, 2009, New Jersey became the 15th state to enact a law requiring many insurance companies to cover the screening and therapeutic treatment for children up to age 21 who are diagnosed with autism and other developmental disabilities.
The law is scheduled to take effect in February, 2010. Under the legislation, insurance companies will be required to provide up to $36,000 a year for medically-necessary behavioral early intervention for all patients with autism, and with other developmental disabilities, who are under 21 years of age. New Jersey health insurers would provide diagnostic coverage for screening for autism and other developmental disabilities.
The mandate also includes therapeutic services, including any medically-necessary occupational, physical and speech therapy. The law provides up to $36,000 a year, per child, for behavioral, speech, and occupational therapy. Of 15 states with similar requirements, New Jersey is the first to include coverage for other developmental disabilities, too.
This new legislation has autism on people’s minds. I recently attended a political rally where I felt like I was at an autism advocacy rally! A lot of people were talking about autism. I heard more talk about autism at that rally than I have ever heard at a non-autism event. The speakers, the folks at my table (whom I had just met), municipal officials, school board officials, state and county officials, the candidates … everyone was talking about the importance of New Jersey making the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders a top priority.
That rally was one of those rare times when I witnessed my professional and personal values mesh with my vision — governing leaders were ensuring that all people are included, and that supports are provided to achieve that goal.