W.Va. Autism Law In Jeopardy, Supporters Say
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Updated: 6:06 PM Feb 2, 2012
W.Va. Autism Law In Jeopardy, Supporters Say
West Virginia's new law extending insurance coverage to children with autism may not do what its supporters intended.
Posted: 6:06 PM Feb 2, 2012
Reporter: Associated Press
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CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) - West Virginia's new law extending insurance coverage to children with autism may not do what its supporters intended.

The law passed last year would eventually require public and private insurers to cover treatment for these neurological disorders. It also sets monthly caps based on age.

Supporters say the caps were meant for applied behavioral analysis. This therapy is considered crucial, particularly at an early age.

But the law does not specifically say that. Insurers believe the cap applies to all treatment, including drugs as well as speech and other therapies.

Supporters call that an error in the legislation. The House Judiciary Committee endorsed a bill Thursday that would change that while fixing other mistakes discovered in that legislation.

Insurers oppose changing the cap language, and warn of the resulting cost.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


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