Autism Health Coverage in Missouri

Hearing to be held Tuesday, April 15 at the Capitol

House bills regarding autism insurance coverage in Missouri will be heard in the Committee on Health Care Policy on Tuesday, April 15.  Those wanting to submit testimony (“for” or “against”) can email either of the bill sponsors:

Rep. Jeff Grisamore:  jeff.grisamore@house.mo.gov

Rep.  Sam Page:   Sam.Page@house.mo.gov

Links to Bills regarding autism insurance coverage:

HB 2265  Requires health benefit plans to include coverage for the treatment of autism spectrum disorders   

HB 2351 Requires certain health carriers to provide insurance coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder under certain conditions  (Similar to SB 1229)

Comments

[Ann Brendel]

Can you email me when this legislation is ready for its final vote? I would like to be in Jeff City when it happens.

[Ginger Luetkemeyer]

Unfortunately, there probably won't be any one and final vote. There are so many steps in the legislative process (Committees, floor vote in House and Senate, conference, etc.) that most bills do not ever get a vote on either side's floor. Many describe the process of passing a bill on a "new idea" as at least a two or three year duration, with lots of education about the issue needed along the way. But the HOuse bills are being combined and most likely will get a Committee vote next week or so. It is a good endorsement for a bill and a "new idea" when it comes out of committee with a favorable vote, and makes it more likely to be accepted the next year.

Hope that helps!