CA AB171

Requires health care service plans and health insurers to provide coverage for screening, diagnosis, and treatment of pervasive developmental disorder or autism for policies issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2013.

Prohibits health care service plans and health insurers from denying, terminating, or refusing to renew coverage solely because an individual is diagnosed with or has received treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism.

Mandates coverage extend to all medically necessary services without limits on age, visits, or dollar amounts, and applies the same deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance terms as physical illness coverage.

Excludes behavioral health treatment from the coverage requirements, which is separately covered under existing law through July 1, 2014.

Exempts benefits exceeding federal essential health benefits under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act from coverage requirements effective January 1, 2014.