AR SB952

Department of Human Services shall seek a Medicaid waiver to provide intensive early intervention treatment to eligible children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

Waiver eligibility limited to children ages 18 months through 7 years, with maximum participation of 3 years per child.

Maximum annual payment of $50,000 per child, with treatment limited to 25 hours per week in the child's home with parent or legal guardian present.

Department must apply by January 1, 2016 to add 50 additional eligibility slots to the autism Medicaid waiver, subject to available appropriations and funding.

Redefines key terms including "autism spectrum disorder" and "evidence-based strategies" based on National Autism Center standards.