IL HB0235

Expands coverage requirements for dental care charges and anesthetics provided in hospitals or ambulatory surgical treatment centers to include children under age 19 with autism spectrum disorder or developmental disabilities, in addition to existing coverage for children age 6 and under, individuals requiring hospitalization or general anesthesia for dental care, and disabled individuals.

Allows anesthetics to be provided by dentists with a permit under Section 8.1 of the Illinois Dental Practice Act, and permits dental care to be provided in dental offices or oral surgeons' offices in addition to hospitals and ambulatory surgical treatment centers.

Requires covered individuals under age 19 with autism spectrum disorder or developmental disabilities to make 2 visits to a dental care provider prior to accessing anesthesia-related coverage.

Defines "developmental disability" as conditions including intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, or autism that manifest before age 22, are likely to continue indefinitely, and result in substantial functional limitations in three or more major life activities.

Permits insurance policies to apply standard limitations, exclusions, or cost-sharing provisions to required dental coverage and excludes dental-only policies, short-term travel policies, accident-only policies, and Medicare-eligible coverage from these requirements.