Assembly Bill No. 1074 CHAPTER 385 An act to amend Section 1374.73 of the Health and Safety Code, to amend Section 10144.51 of the Insurance Code, and to amend Section 14132.56 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to health care coverage. [ Approved by Governor September 30, 2017. Filed with Secretary of State September 30, 2017. ] LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 1074, Maienschein. Health care coverage: pervasive developmental disorder or autism.Existing law, the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975 (Knox-Keene Act), provides for the licensure and regulation of health care service plans by the Department of Managed Health Care and makes a willful violation of the act a crime. Existing law also provides for the regulation of health insurers by the Department of Insurance. Existing law requires a health care service plan contract or a health insurance policy to provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and defines behavioral health treatment to mean specified services provided by, among others, a qualified autism service professional supervised and employed by a qualified autism service provider. Under existing law, to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment, as defined under the Knox-Keene Act, is a covered service under the Medi-Cal program for individuals under 21 years of age, as specified.This bill would revise those provisions, for purposes of health care service plans and health insurers, to require a qualified autism service professional or a qualified autism service paraprofessional to be supervised by a qualified autism service provider for purposes of providing behavioral health treatment. The bill would require a qualified autism service professional and a qualified autism service paraprofessional to be employed by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers. The bill additionally would authorize a qualified autism service professional, as specified, to supervise a qualified autism service paraprofessional. The bill would revise the definition of a qualified autism service professional to, among other things, specify that the behavioral health treatment provided by the qualified autism service professional may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider. The bill would make other technical changes. The bill would revise the definition of behavioral health treatment for purposes of the Medi-Cal program to be those services administered by the State Department of Health Care Services as described in the state plan approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.Because a willful violation of the bills provisions by a health care service plan would be a crime, it would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1374.73 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1374.73. (a) (1) Every health care service plan contract that provides hospital, medical, or surgical coverage shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 1374.72.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health plans will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Every health care service plan subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health care service plan is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the health care service plan upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 1374.72.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health care service plan that does not deliver mental health or behavioral health services to enrollees.(2) A health care service plan contract in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 1374.72.(f) As provided in Section 1374.72 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health care service plan may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.SEC. 2. Section 10144.51 of the Insurance Code is amended to read:10144.51. (a) (1) Every health insurance policy shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 10144.5.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health insurers will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Pursuant to Article 6 (commencing with Section 2240) of Subchapter 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations, every health insurer subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health insurer is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the insurer upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 10144.5.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health insurance policy that does not cover mental health or behavioral health services or an accident only, specified disease, hospital indemnity, or Medicare supplement policy.(2) A health insurance policy in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 10144.5.(f) As provided in Section 10144.5 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health insurer may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.SEC. 3. Section 14132.56 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14132.56. (a) (1) Only to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment (BHT) shall be a covered Medi-Cal service for individuals under 21 years of age.(2) It is the intent of the Legislature that, to the extent the federal government requires BHT to be a covered Medi-Cal service, the department shall seek statutory authority to implement this new benefit in Medi-Cal.(3) For purposes of this section, behavioral health treatment or BHT means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis (ABA) and evidence-based intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and are administered by the department as described in the approved state plan.(b) The department shall implement, or continue to implement, this section only after all of the following occurs or has occurred:(1) The department receives all necessary federal approvals to obtain federal funds for the service.(2) The department seeks an appropriation that would provide the necessary state funding estimated to be required for the applicable fiscal year.(3) The department consults with stakeholders.(c) The department shall develop and define eligibility criteria, provider participation criteria, utilization controls, and delivery system structure for services under this section, subject to limitations allowable under federal law, in consultation with stakeholders.(d) (1) The department, commencing on the effective date of the act that added this subdivision until March 31, 2017, inclusive, may make available to individuals described in paragraph (2) contracted services to assist those individuals with health insurance enrollment, without regard to whether federal funds are available for the contracted services.(2) The contracted services described in paragraph (1) may be provided only to an individual under 21 years of age whom the department identifies as no longer eligible for Medi-Cal solely due to the transition of BHT coverage from the waiver program under Section 1915(c) of the federal Social Security Act to the Medi-Cal state plan in accordance with this section and who meets all of the following criteria:(A) He or she was enrolled in the home and community-based services waiver for persons with developmental disabilities under Section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act as of January 31, 2016.(B) He or she was deemed to be institutionalized in order to establish eligibility under the terms of the waiver.(C) He or she has not been found eligible under any other federally funded Medi-Cal criteria without a share of cost.(D) He or she had received a BHT service from a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities as provided in Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 4620) of Division 4.5.(e) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department, without taking any further regulatory action, shall implement, interpret, or make specific this section by means of all-county letters, plan letters, plan or provider bulletins, or similar instructions until regulations are adopted. The department shall adopt regulations by July 1, 2017, in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. Notwithstanding Section 10231.5 of the Government Code, beginning six months after the effective date of this section, the department shall provide semiannual status reports to the Legislature, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, until regulations have been adopted.(f) For the purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts on a bid or negotiated basis, including contracts for the purpose of obtaining subject matter expertise or other technical assistance. Contracts may be statewide or on a more limited geographic basis. Contracts entered into or amended under this subdivision shall be exempt from Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, and Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of the Government Code, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(g) The department may seek approval of any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement this section. The department shall make any state plan amendments or waiver requests public at least 30 days prior to submitting to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the department shall work with stakeholders to address the public comments in the state plan amendment or waiver request.(h) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that federal financial participation is available and any necessary federal approvals have been obtained.SEC. 4. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
Assembly Bill No. 1074 CHAPTER 385 An act to amend Section 1374.73 of the Health and Safety Code, to amend Section 10144.51 of the Insurance Code, and to amend Section 14132.56 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to health care coverage. [ Approved by Governor September 30, 2017. Filed with Secretary of State September 30, 2017. ] LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 1074, Maienschein. Health care coverage: pervasive developmental disorder or autism.Existing law, the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975 (Knox-Keene Act), provides for the licensure and regulation of health care service plans by the Department of Managed Health Care and makes a willful violation of the act a crime. Existing law also provides for the regulation of health insurers by the Department of Insurance. Existing law requires a health care service plan contract or a health insurance policy to provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and defines behavioral health treatment to mean specified services provided by, among others, a qualified autism service professional supervised and employed by a qualified autism service provider. Under existing law, to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment, as defined under the Knox-Keene Act, is a covered service under the Medi-Cal program for individuals under 21 years of age, as specified.This bill would revise those provisions, for purposes of health care service plans and health insurers, to require a qualified autism service professional or a qualified autism service paraprofessional to be supervised by a qualified autism service provider for purposes of providing behavioral health treatment. The bill would require a qualified autism service professional and a qualified autism service paraprofessional to be employed by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers. The bill additionally would authorize a qualified autism service professional, as specified, to supervise a qualified autism service paraprofessional. The bill would revise the definition of a qualified autism service professional to, among other things, specify that the behavioral health treatment provided by the qualified autism service professional may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider. The bill would make other technical changes. The bill would revise the definition of behavioral health treatment for purposes of the Medi-Cal program to be those services administered by the State Department of Health Care Services as described in the state plan approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.Because a willful violation of the bills provisions by a health care service plan would be a crime, it would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES
Assembly Bill No. 1074
CHAPTER 385
An act to amend Section 1374.73 of the Health and Safety Code, to amend Section 10144.51 of the Insurance Code, and to amend Section 14132.56 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to health care coverage.
[ Approved by Governor September 30, 2017. Filed with Secretary of State September 30, 2017. ]
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
AB 1074, Maienschein. Health care coverage: pervasive developmental disorder or autism.
Existing law, the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975 (Knox-Keene Act), provides for the licensure and regulation of health care service plans by the Department of Managed Health Care and makes a willful violation of the act a crime. Existing law also provides for the regulation of health insurers by the Department of Insurance. Existing law requires a health care service plan contract or a health insurance policy to provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and defines behavioral health treatment to mean specified services provided by, among others, a qualified autism service professional supervised and employed by a qualified autism service provider. Under existing law, to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment, as defined under the Knox-Keene Act, is a covered service under the Medi-Cal program for individuals under 21 years of age, as specified.This bill would revise those provisions, for purposes of health care service plans and health insurers, to require a qualified autism service professional or a qualified autism service paraprofessional to be supervised by a qualified autism service provider for purposes of providing behavioral health treatment. The bill would require a qualified autism service professional and a qualified autism service paraprofessional to be employed by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers. The bill additionally would authorize a qualified autism service professional, as specified, to supervise a qualified autism service paraprofessional. The bill would revise the definition of a qualified autism service professional to, among other things, specify that the behavioral health treatment provided by the qualified autism service professional may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider. The bill would make other technical changes. The bill would revise the definition of behavioral health treatment for purposes of the Medi-Cal program to be those services administered by the State Department of Health Care Services as described in the state plan approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.Because a willful violation of the bills provisions by a health care service plan would be a crime, it would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.
Existing law, the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975 (Knox-Keene Act), provides for the licensure and regulation of health care service plans by the Department of Managed Health Care and makes a willful violation of the act a crime. Existing law also provides for the regulation of health insurers by the Department of Insurance. Existing law requires a health care service plan contract or a health insurance policy to provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and defines behavioral health treatment to mean specified services provided by, among others, a qualified autism service professional supervised and employed by a qualified autism service provider. Under existing law, to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment, as defined under the Knox-Keene Act, is a covered service under the Medi-Cal program for individuals under 21 years of age, as specified.
This bill would revise those provisions, for purposes of health care service plans and health insurers, to require a qualified autism service professional or a qualified autism service paraprofessional to be supervised by a qualified autism service provider for purposes of providing behavioral health treatment. The bill would require a qualified autism service professional and a qualified autism service paraprofessional to be employed by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers. The bill additionally would authorize a qualified autism service professional, as specified, to supervise a qualified autism service paraprofessional. The bill would revise the definition of a qualified autism service professional to, among other things, specify that the behavioral health treatment provided by the qualified autism service professional may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider. The bill would make other technical changes. The bill would revise the definition of behavioral health treatment for purposes of the Medi-Cal program to be those services administered by the State Department of Health Care Services as described in the state plan approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Because a willful violation of the bills provisions by a health care service plan would be a crime, it would impose a state-mandated local program.
The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.
## Digest Key
## Bill Text
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1374.73 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1374.73. (a) (1) Every health care service plan contract that provides hospital, medical, or surgical coverage shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 1374.72.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health plans will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Every health care service plan subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health care service plan is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the health care service plan upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 1374.72.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health care service plan that does not deliver mental health or behavioral health services to enrollees.(2) A health care service plan contract in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 1374.72.(f) As provided in Section 1374.72 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health care service plan may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.SEC. 2. Section 10144.51 of the Insurance Code is amended to read:10144.51. (a) (1) Every health insurance policy shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 10144.5.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health insurers will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Pursuant to Article 6 (commencing with Section 2240) of Subchapter 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations, every health insurer subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health insurer is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the insurer upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 10144.5.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health insurance policy that does not cover mental health or behavioral health services or an accident only, specified disease, hospital indemnity, or Medicare supplement policy.(2) A health insurance policy in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 10144.5.(f) As provided in Section 10144.5 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health insurer may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.SEC. 3. Section 14132.56 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14132.56. (a) (1) Only to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment (BHT) shall be a covered Medi-Cal service for individuals under 21 years of age.(2) It is the intent of the Legislature that, to the extent the federal government requires BHT to be a covered Medi-Cal service, the department shall seek statutory authority to implement this new benefit in Medi-Cal.(3) For purposes of this section, behavioral health treatment or BHT means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis (ABA) and evidence-based intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and are administered by the department as described in the approved state plan.(b) The department shall implement, or continue to implement, this section only after all of the following occurs or has occurred:(1) The department receives all necessary federal approvals to obtain federal funds for the service.(2) The department seeks an appropriation that would provide the necessary state funding estimated to be required for the applicable fiscal year.(3) The department consults with stakeholders.(c) The department shall develop and define eligibility criteria, provider participation criteria, utilization controls, and delivery system structure for services under this section, subject to limitations allowable under federal law, in consultation with stakeholders.(d) (1) The department, commencing on the effective date of the act that added this subdivision until March 31, 2017, inclusive, may make available to individuals described in paragraph (2) contracted services to assist those individuals with health insurance enrollment, without regard to whether federal funds are available for the contracted services.(2) The contracted services described in paragraph (1) may be provided only to an individual under 21 years of age whom the department identifies as no longer eligible for Medi-Cal solely due to the transition of BHT coverage from the waiver program under Section 1915(c) of the federal Social Security Act to the Medi-Cal state plan in accordance with this section and who meets all of the following criteria:(A) He or she was enrolled in the home and community-based services waiver for persons with developmental disabilities under Section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act as of January 31, 2016.(B) He or she was deemed to be institutionalized in order to establish eligibility under the terms of the waiver.(C) He or she has not been found eligible under any other federally funded Medi-Cal criteria without a share of cost.(D) He or she had received a BHT service from a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities as provided in Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 4620) of Division 4.5.(e) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department, without taking any further regulatory action, shall implement, interpret, or make specific this section by means of all-county letters, plan letters, plan or provider bulletins, or similar instructions until regulations are adopted. The department shall adopt regulations by July 1, 2017, in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. Notwithstanding Section 10231.5 of the Government Code, beginning six months after the effective date of this section, the department shall provide semiannual status reports to the Legislature, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, until regulations have been adopted.(f) For the purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts on a bid or negotiated basis, including contracts for the purpose of obtaining subject matter expertise or other technical assistance. Contracts may be statewide or on a more limited geographic basis. Contracts entered into or amended under this subdivision shall be exempt from Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, and Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of the Government Code, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(g) The department may seek approval of any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement this section. The department shall make any state plan amendments or waiver requests public at least 30 days prior to submitting to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the department shall work with stakeholders to address the public comments in the state plan amendment or waiver request.(h) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that federal financial participation is available and any necessary federal approvals have been obtained.SEC. 4. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 1374.73 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:1374.73. (a) (1) Every health care service plan contract that provides hospital, medical, or surgical coverage shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 1374.72.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health plans will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Every health care service plan subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health care service plan is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the health care service plan upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 1374.72.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health care service plan that does not deliver mental health or behavioral health services to enrollees.(2) A health care service plan contract in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 1374.72.(f) As provided in Section 1374.72 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health care service plan may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.
SECTION 1. Section 1374.73 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:
### SECTION 1.
1374.73. (a) (1) Every health care service plan contract that provides hospital, medical, or surgical coverage shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 1374.72.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health plans will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Every health care service plan subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health care service plan is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the health care service plan upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 1374.72.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health care service plan that does not deliver mental health or behavioral health services to enrollees.(2) A health care service plan contract in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 1374.72.(f) As provided in Section 1374.72 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health care service plan may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.
1374.73. (a) (1) Every health care service plan contract that provides hospital, medical, or surgical coverage shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 1374.72.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health plans will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Every health care service plan subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health care service plan is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the health care service plan upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 1374.72.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health care service plan that does not deliver mental health or behavioral health services to enrollees.(2) A health care service plan contract in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 1374.72.(f) As provided in Section 1374.72 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health care service plan may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.
1374.73. (a) (1) Every health care service plan contract that provides hospital, medical, or surgical coverage shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 1374.72.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health plans will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Every health care service plan subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health care service plan is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the health care service plan upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 1374.72.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health care service plan that does not deliver mental health or behavioral health services to enrollees.(2) A health care service plan contract in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 1374.72.(f) As provided in Section 1374.72 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health care service plan may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.
1374.73. (a) (1) Every health care service plan contract that provides hospital, medical, or surgical coverage shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 1374.72.
(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health plans will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).
(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.
(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.
(b) Every health care service plan subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health care service plan is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.
(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:
(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism and that meet all of the following criteria:
(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.
(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:
(i) A qualified autism service provider.
(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.
(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.
(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:
(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.
(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.
(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.
(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.
(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the health care service plan upon request.
(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 1374.72.
(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:
(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.
(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.
(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:
(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.
(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.
(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.
(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.
(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.
(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.
(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:
(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.
(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.
(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.
(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.
(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.
(d) This section shall not apply to the following:
(1) A specialized health care service plan that does not deliver mental health or behavioral health services to enrollees.
(2) A health care service plan contract in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).
(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 1374.72.
(f) As provided in Section 1374.72 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health care service plan may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.
SEC. 2. Section 10144.51 of the Insurance Code is amended to read:10144.51. (a) (1) Every health insurance policy shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 10144.5.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health insurers will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Pursuant to Article 6 (commencing with Section 2240) of Subchapter 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations, every health insurer subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health insurer is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the insurer upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 10144.5.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health insurance policy that does not cover mental health or behavioral health services or an accident only, specified disease, hospital indemnity, or Medicare supplement policy.(2) A health insurance policy in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 10144.5.(f) As provided in Section 10144.5 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health insurer may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.
SEC. 2. Section 10144.51 of the Insurance Code is amended to read:
### SEC. 2.
10144.51. (a) (1) Every health insurance policy shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 10144.5.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health insurers will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Pursuant to Article 6 (commencing with Section 2240) of Subchapter 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations, every health insurer subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health insurer is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the insurer upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 10144.5.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health insurance policy that does not cover mental health or behavioral health services or an accident only, specified disease, hospital indemnity, or Medicare supplement policy.(2) A health insurance policy in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 10144.5.(f) As provided in Section 10144.5 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health insurer may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.
10144.51. (a) (1) Every health insurance policy shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 10144.5.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health insurers will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Pursuant to Article 6 (commencing with Section 2240) of Subchapter 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations, every health insurer subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health insurer is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the insurer upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 10144.5.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health insurance policy that does not cover mental health or behavioral health services or an accident only, specified disease, hospital indemnity, or Medicare supplement policy.(2) A health insurance policy in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 10144.5.(f) As provided in Section 10144.5 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health insurer may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.
10144.51. (a) (1) Every health insurance policy shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 10144.5.(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health insurers will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.(b) Pursuant to Article 6 (commencing with Section 2240) of Subchapter 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations, every health insurer subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health insurer is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and that meet all of the following criteria:(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:(i) A qualified autism service provider.(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the insurer upon request.(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 10144.5.(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.(d) This section shall not apply to the following:(1) A specialized health insurance policy that does not cover mental health or behavioral health services or an accident only, specified disease, hospital indemnity, or Medicare supplement policy.(2) A health insurance policy in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 10144.5.(f) As provided in Section 10144.5 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health insurer may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.
10144.51. (a) (1) Every health insurance policy shall also provide coverage for behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism no later than July 1, 2012. The coverage shall be provided in the same manner and shall be subject to the same requirements as provided in Section 10144.5.
(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), as of the date that proposed final rulemaking for essential health benefits is issued, this section does not require any benefits to be provided that exceed the essential health benefits that all health insurers will be required by federal regulations to provide under Section 1302(b) of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148), as amended by the federal Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-152).
(3) This section shall not affect services for which an individual is eligible pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.
(4) This section shall not affect or reduce any obligation to provide services under an individualized education program, as defined in Section 56032 of the Education Code, or an individual service plan, as described in Section 5600.4 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.) and its implementing regulations.
(b) Pursuant to Article 6 (commencing with Section 2240) of Subchapter 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations, every health insurer subject to this section shall maintain an adequate network that includes qualified autism service providers who supervise or employ qualified autism service professionals or paraprofessionals who provide and administer behavioral health treatment. A health insurer is not prevented from selectively contracting with providers within these requirements.
(c) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:
(1) Behavioral health treatment means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis and evidence-based behavior intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and that meet all of the following criteria:
(A) The treatment is prescribed by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of, or is developed by a psychologist licensed pursuant to Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 2900) of, Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.
(B) The treatment is provided under a treatment plan prescribed by a qualified autism service provider and is administered by one of the following:
(i) A qualified autism service provider.
(ii) A qualified autism service professional supervised by the qualified autism service provider.
(iii) A qualified autism service paraprofessional supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional.
(C) The treatment plan has measurable goals over a specific timeline that is developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider for the specific patient being treated. The treatment plan shall be reviewed no less than once every six months by the qualified autism service provider and modified whenever appropriate, and shall be consistent with Section 4686.2 of the Welfare and Institutions Code pursuant to which the qualified autism service provider does all of the following:
(i) Describes the patients behavioral health impairments or developmental challenges that are to be treated.
(ii) Designs an intervention plan that includes the service type, number of hours, and parent participation needed to achieve the plans goal and objectives, and the frequency at which the patients progress is evaluated and reported.
(iii) Provides intervention plans that utilize evidence-based practices, with demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating pervasive developmental disorder or autism.
(iv) Discontinues intensive behavioral intervention services when the treatment goals and objectives are achieved or no longer appropriate.
(D) The treatment plan is not used for purposes of providing or for the reimbursement of respite, day care, or educational services and is not used to reimburse a parent for participating in the treatment program. The treatment plan shall be made available to the insurer upon request.
(2) Pervasive developmental disorder or autism shall have the same meaning and interpretation as used in Section 10144.5.
(3) Qualified autism service provider means either of the following:
(A) A person who is certified by a national entity, such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, with a certification that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the person who is nationally certified.
(B) A person licensed as a physician and surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, educational psychologist, clinical social worker, professional clinical counselor, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist pursuant to Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of the Business and Professions Code, who designs, supervises, or provides treatment for pervasive developmental disorder or autism, provided the services are within the experience and competence of the licensee.
(4) Qualified autism service professional means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:
(A) Provides behavioral health treatment, which may include clinical case management and case supervision under the direction and supervision of a qualified autism service provider.
(B) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider.
(C) Provides treatment pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.
(D) Is a behavioral service provider who meets the education and experience qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations for an Associate Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst, Behavior Management Assistant, Behavior Management Consultant, or Behavior Management Program.
(E) Has training and experience in providing services for pervasive developmental disorder or autism pursuant to Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4500) of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government Code.
(F) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.
(5) Qualified autism service paraprofessional means an unlicensed and uncertified individual who meets all of the following criteria:
(A) Is supervised by a qualified autism service provider or qualified autism service professional at a level of clinical supervision that meets professionally recognized standards of practice.
(B) Provides treatment and implements services pursuant to a treatment plan developed and approved by the qualified autism service provider.
(C) Meets the education and training qualifications described in Section 54342 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations.
(D) Has adequate education, training, and experience, as certified by a qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers.
(E) Is employed by the qualified autism service provider or an entity or group that employs qualified autism service providers responsible for the autism treatment plan.
(d) This section shall not apply to the following:
(1) A specialized health insurance policy that does not cover mental health or behavioral health services or an accident only, specified disease, hospital indemnity, or Medicare supplement policy.
(2) A health insurance policy in the Medi-Cal program (Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 14000) of Part 3 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code).
(e) This section does not limit the obligation to provide services under Section 10144.5.
(f) As provided in Section 10144.5 and in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), in the provision of benefits required by this section, a health insurer may utilize case management, network providers, utilization review techniques, prior authorization, copayments, or other cost sharing.
SEC. 3. Section 14132.56 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:14132.56. (a) (1) Only to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment (BHT) shall be a covered Medi-Cal service for individuals under 21 years of age.(2) It is the intent of the Legislature that, to the extent the federal government requires BHT to be a covered Medi-Cal service, the department shall seek statutory authority to implement this new benefit in Medi-Cal.(3) For purposes of this section, behavioral health treatment or BHT means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis (ABA) and evidence-based intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and are administered by the department as described in the approved state plan.(b) The department shall implement, or continue to implement, this section only after all of the following occurs or has occurred:(1) The department receives all necessary federal approvals to obtain federal funds for the service.(2) The department seeks an appropriation that would provide the necessary state funding estimated to be required for the applicable fiscal year.(3) The department consults with stakeholders.(c) The department shall develop and define eligibility criteria, provider participation criteria, utilization controls, and delivery system structure for services under this section, subject to limitations allowable under federal law, in consultation with stakeholders.(d) (1) The department, commencing on the effective date of the act that added this subdivision until March 31, 2017, inclusive, may make available to individuals described in paragraph (2) contracted services to assist those individuals with health insurance enrollment, without regard to whether federal funds are available for the contracted services.(2) The contracted services described in paragraph (1) may be provided only to an individual under 21 years of age whom the department identifies as no longer eligible for Medi-Cal solely due to the transition of BHT coverage from the waiver program under Section 1915(c) of the federal Social Security Act to the Medi-Cal state plan in accordance with this section and who meets all of the following criteria:(A) He or she was enrolled in the home and community-based services waiver for persons with developmental disabilities under Section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act as of January 31, 2016.(B) He or she was deemed to be institutionalized in order to establish eligibility under the terms of the waiver.(C) He or she has not been found eligible under any other federally funded Medi-Cal criteria without a share of cost.(D) He or she had received a BHT service from a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities as provided in Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 4620) of Division 4.5.(e) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department, without taking any further regulatory action, shall implement, interpret, or make specific this section by means of all-county letters, plan letters, plan or provider bulletins, or similar instructions until regulations are adopted. The department shall adopt regulations by July 1, 2017, in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. Notwithstanding Section 10231.5 of the Government Code, beginning six months after the effective date of this section, the department shall provide semiannual status reports to the Legislature, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, until regulations have been adopted.(f) For the purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts on a bid or negotiated basis, including contracts for the purpose of obtaining subject matter expertise or other technical assistance. Contracts may be statewide or on a more limited geographic basis. Contracts entered into or amended under this subdivision shall be exempt from Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, and Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of the Government Code, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(g) The department may seek approval of any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement this section. The department shall make any state plan amendments or waiver requests public at least 30 days prior to submitting to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the department shall work with stakeholders to address the public comments in the state plan amendment or waiver request.(h) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that federal financial participation is available and any necessary federal approvals have been obtained.
SEC. 3. Section 14132.56 of the Welfare and Institutions Code is amended to read:
### SEC. 3.
14132.56. (a) (1) Only to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment (BHT) shall be a covered Medi-Cal service for individuals under 21 years of age.(2) It is the intent of the Legislature that, to the extent the federal government requires BHT to be a covered Medi-Cal service, the department shall seek statutory authority to implement this new benefit in Medi-Cal.(3) For purposes of this section, behavioral health treatment or BHT means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis (ABA) and evidence-based intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and are administered by the department as described in the approved state plan.(b) The department shall implement, or continue to implement, this section only after all of the following occurs or has occurred:(1) The department receives all necessary federal approvals to obtain federal funds for the service.(2) The department seeks an appropriation that would provide the necessary state funding estimated to be required for the applicable fiscal year.(3) The department consults with stakeholders.(c) The department shall develop and define eligibility criteria, provider participation criteria, utilization controls, and delivery system structure for services under this section, subject to limitations allowable under federal law, in consultation with stakeholders.(d) (1) The department, commencing on the effective date of the act that added this subdivision until March 31, 2017, inclusive, may make available to individuals described in paragraph (2) contracted services to assist those individuals with health insurance enrollment, without regard to whether federal funds are available for the contracted services.(2) The contracted services described in paragraph (1) may be provided only to an individual under 21 years of age whom the department identifies as no longer eligible for Medi-Cal solely due to the transition of BHT coverage from the waiver program under Section 1915(c) of the federal Social Security Act to the Medi-Cal state plan in accordance with this section and who meets all of the following criteria:(A) He or she was enrolled in the home and community-based services waiver for persons with developmental disabilities under Section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act as of January 31, 2016.(B) He or she was deemed to be institutionalized in order to establish eligibility under the terms of the waiver.(C) He or she has not been found eligible under any other federally funded Medi-Cal criteria without a share of cost.(D) He or she had received a BHT service from a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities as provided in Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 4620) of Division 4.5.(e) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department, without taking any further regulatory action, shall implement, interpret, or make specific this section by means of all-county letters, plan letters, plan or provider bulletins, or similar instructions until regulations are adopted. The department shall adopt regulations by July 1, 2017, in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. Notwithstanding Section 10231.5 of the Government Code, beginning six months after the effective date of this section, the department shall provide semiannual status reports to the Legislature, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, until regulations have been adopted.(f) For the purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts on a bid or negotiated basis, including contracts for the purpose of obtaining subject matter expertise or other technical assistance. Contracts may be statewide or on a more limited geographic basis. Contracts entered into or amended under this subdivision shall be exempt from Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, and Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of the Government Code, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(g) The department may seek approval of any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement this section. The department shall make any state plan amendments or waiver requests public at least 30 days prior to submitting to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the department shall work with stakeholders to address the public comments in the state plan amendment or waiver request.(h) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that federal financial participation is available and any necessary federal approvals have been obtained.
14132.56. (a) (1) Only to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment (BHT) shall be a covered Medi-Cal service for individuals under 21 years of age.(2) It is the intent of the Legislature that, to the extent the federal government requires BHT to be a covered Medi-Cal service, the department shall seek statutory authority to implement this new benefit in Medi-Cal.(3) For purposes of this section, behavioral health treatment or BHT means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis (ABA) and evidence-based intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and are administered by the department as described in the approved state plan.(b) The department shall implement, or continue to implement, this section only after all of the following occurs or has occurred:(1) The department receives all necessary federal approvals to obtain federal funds for the service.(2) The department seeks an appropriation that would provide the necessary state funding estimated to be required for the applicable fiscal year.(3) The department consults with stakeholders.(c) The department shall develop and define eligibility criteria, provider participation criteria, utilization controls, and delivery system structure for services under this section, subject to limitations allowable under federal law, in consultation with stakeholders.(d) (1) The department, commencing on the effective date of the act that added this subdivision until March 31, 2017, inclusive, may make available to individuals described in paragraph (2) contracted services to assist those individuals with health insurance enrollment, without regard to whether federal funds are available for the contracted services.(2) The contracted services described in paragraph (1) may be provided only to an individual under 21 years of age whom the department identifies as no longer eligible for Medi-Cal solely due to the transition of BHT coverage from the waiver program under Section 1915(c) of the federal Social Security Act to the Medi-Cal state plan in accordance with this section and who meets all of the following criteria:(A) He or she was enrolled in the home and community-based services waiver for persons with developmental disabilities under Section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act as of January 31, 2016.(B) He or she was deemed to be institutionalized in order to establish eligibility under the terms of the waiver.(C) He or she has not been found eligible under any other federally funded Medi-Cal criteria without a share of cost.(D) He or she had received a BHT service from a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities as provided in Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 4620) of Division 4.5.(e) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department, without taking any further regulatory action, shall implement, interpret, or make specific this section by means of all-county letters, plan letters, plan or provider bulletins, or similar instructions until regulations are adopted. The department shall adopt regulations by July 1, 2017, in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. Notwithstanding Section 10231.5 of the Government Code, beginning six months after the effective date of this section, the department shall provide semiannual status reports to the Legislature, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, until regulations have been adopted.(f) For the purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts on a bid or negotiated basis, including contracts for the purpose of obtaining subject matter expertise or other technical assistance. Contracts may be statewide or on a more limited geographic basis. Contracts entered into or amended under this subdivision shall be exempt from Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, and Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of the Government Code, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(g) The department may seek approval of any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement this section. The department shall make any state plan amendments or waiver requests public at least 30 days prior to submitting to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the department shall work with stakeholders to address the public comments in the state plan amendment or waiver request.(h) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that federal financial participation is available and any necessary federal approvals have been obtained.
14132.56. (a) (1) Only to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment (BHT) shall be a covered Medi-Cal service for individuals under 21 years of age.(2) It is the intent of the Legislature that, to the extent the federal government requires BHT to be a covered Medi-Cal service, the department shall seek statutory authority to implement this new benefit in Medi-Cal.(3) For purposes of this section, behavioral health treatment or BHT means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis (ABA) and evidence-based intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and are administered by the department as described in the approved state plan.(b) The department shall implement, or continue to implement, this section only after all of the following occurs or has occurred:(1) The department receives all necessary federal approvals to obtain federal funds for the service.(2) The department seeks an appropriation that would provide the necessary state funding estimated to be required for the applicable fiscal year.(3) The department consults with stakeholders.(c) The department shall develop and define eligibility criteria, provider participation criteria, utilization controls, and delivery system structure for services under this section, subject to limitations allowable under federal law, in consultation with stakeholders.(d) (1) The department, commencing on the effective date of the act that added this subdivision until March 31, 2017, inclusive, may make available to individuals described in paragraph (2) contracted services to assist those individuals with health insurance enrollment, without regard to whether federal funds are available for the contracted services.(2) The contracted services described in paragraph (1) may be provided only to an individual under 21 years of age whom the department identifies as no longer eligible for Medi-Cal solely due to the transition of BHT coverage from the waiver program under Section 1915(c) of the federal Social Security Act to the Medi-Cal state plan in accordance with this section and who meets all of the following criteria:(A) He or she was enrolled in the home and community-based services waiver for persons with developmental disabilities under Section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act as of January 31, 2016.(B) He or she was deemed to be institutionalized in order to establish eligibility under the terms of the waiver.(C) He or she has not been found eligible under any other federally funded Medi-Cal criteria without a share of cost.(D) He or she had received a BHT service from a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities as provided in Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 4620) of Division 4.5.(e) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department, without taking any further regulatory action, shall implement, interpret, or make specific this section by means of all-county letters, plan letters, plan or provider bulletins, or similar instructions until regulations are adopted. The department shall adopt regulations by July 1, 2017, in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. Notwithstanding Section 10231.5 of the Government Code, beginning six months after the effective date of this section, the department shall provide semiannual status reports to the Legislature, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, until regulations have been adopted.(f) For the purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts on a bid or negotiated basis, including contracts for the purpose of obtaining subject matter expertise or other technical assistance. Contracts may be statewide or on a more limited geographic basis. Contracts entered into or amended under this subdivision shall be exempt from Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, and Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of the Government Code, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.(g) The department may seek approval of any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement this section. The department shall make any state plan amendments or waiver requests public at least 30 days prior to submitting to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the department shall work with stakeholders to address the public comments in the state plan amendment or waiver request.(h) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that federal financial participation is available and any necessary federal approvals have been obtained.
14132.56. (a) (1) Only to the extent required by the federal government and effective no sooner than required by the federal government, behavioral health treatment (BHT) shall be a covered Medi-Cal service for individuals under 21 years of age.
(2) It is the intent of the Legislature that, to the extent the federal government requires BHT to be a covered Medi-Cal service, the department shall seek statutory authority to implement this new benefit in Medi-Cal.
(3) For purposes of this section, behavioral health treatment or BHT means professional services and treatment programs, including applied behavior analysis (ABA) and evidence-based intervention programs, that develop or restore, to the maximum extent practicable, the functioning of an individual with pervasive developmental disorder or autism, and are administered by the department as described in the approved state plan.
(b) The department shall implement, or continue to implement, this section only after all of the following occurs or has occurred:
(1) The department receives all necessary federal approvals to obtain federal funds for the service.
(2) The department seeks an appropriation that would provide the necessary state funding estimated to be required for the applicable fiscal year.
(3) The department consults with stakeholders.
(c) The department shall develop and define eligibility criteria, provider participation criteria, utilization controls, and delivery system structure for services under this section, subject to limitations allowable under federal law, in consultation with stakeholders.
(d) (1) The department, commencing on the effective date of the act that added this subdivision until March 31, 2017, inclusive, may make available to individuals described in paragraph (2) contracted services to assist those individuals with health insurance enrollment, without regard to whether federal funds are available for the contracted services.
(2) The contracted services described in paragraph (1) may be provided only to an individual under 21 years of age whom the department identifies as no longer eligible for Medi-Cal solely due to the transition of BHT coverage from the waiver program under Section 1915(c) of the federal Social Security Act to the Medi-Cal state plan in accordance with this section and who meets all of the following criteria:
(A) He or she was enrolled in the home and community-based services waiver for persons with developmental disabilities under Section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act as of January 31, 2016.
(B) He or she was deemed to be institutionalized in order to establish eligibility under the terms of the waiver.
(C) He or she has not been found eligible under any other federally funded Medi-Cal criteria without a share of cost.
(D) He or she had received a BHT service from a regional center for persons with developmental disabilities as provided in Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 4620) of Division 4.5.
(e) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department, without taking any further regulatory action, shall implement, interpret, or make specific this section by means of all-county letters, plan letters, plan or provider bulletins, or similar instructions until regulations are adopted. The department shall adopt regulations by July 1, 2017, in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. Notwithstanding Section 10231.5 of the Government Code, beginning six months after the effective date of this section, the department shall provide semiannual status reports to the Legislature, in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code, until regulations have been adopted.
(f) For the purposes of implementing this section, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts on a bid or negotiated basis, including contracts for the purpose of obtaining subject matter expertise or other technical assistance. Contracts may be statewide or on a more limited geographic basis. Contracts entered into or amended under this subdivision shall be exempt from Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, and Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of the Government Code, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.
(g) The department may seek approval of any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement this section. The department shall make any state plan amendments or waiver requests public at least 30 days prior to submitting to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the department shall work with stakeholders to address the public comments in the state plan amendment or waiver request.
(h) This section shall be implemented only to the extent that federal financial participation is available and any necessary federal approvals have been obtained.
SEC. 4. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
SEC. 4. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
SEC. 4. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
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