SB224 Summary

• Amends Alabama Code sections 10A-20-6.16, 27-21A-23, and 27-54A-2 to require health benefit plans to offer coverage for screening, diagnosis, and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder for children age 9 or under.

• Coverage applies to group health insurance plans issued or delivered in Alabama to employers with at least 51 employees for at least 50 percent of working days during the preceding calendar year.

• Covered treatments include behavioral health treatment, pharmacy care, psychiatric care, psychological care, and therapeutic care as prescribed by a licensed physician or psychologist in accordance with a treatment plan.

• Behavioral therapy coverage is limited to a maximum of $36,000 per year, adjusted annually beginning January 1 each year based on the Consumer Price Index.

• Health benefit plans may not deny coverage, refuse to issue policies, or refuse to renew coverage solely because an individual is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder; the law becomes effective October 1, 2016.