CA AB796

Extends indefinitely the requirement for health care service plans and health insurers to provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for autism and pervasive developmental disorders, removing the previous January 1, 2017 sunset date.

Defines "behavioral health treatment" as professional services including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based interventions prescribed by physicians or psychologists, administered by qualified autism service providers, professionals, or paraprofessionals.

Requires health care service plans and insurers to maintain adequate networks of qualified autism service providers and prohibits application to Medi-Cal, Healthy Families Program, and certain specialized plans.

Specifies that "qualified autism service professionals" must be approved vendors by California regional centers as behavior analysts, behavior management assistants, or behavior management consultants with relevant training and experience.

Exempts state agencies and school districts from reimbursement requirements under Article XIII B of the California Constitution for costs related to the criminal penalties provisions of this act.