Texas House Bill HB451

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 12/19/08
• Out of House Committee: 5/8/09
• Voted on by House: 5/17/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/23/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/25/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 6/1/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to health benefit plan coverage for autism spectrum disorder.

Impact

The passage of HB 451 represents a significant step toward enhancing health benefit plan accessibility for children diagnosed with autism in Texas. Prior to the implementation of this bill, there were limitations that left many families without necessary resources to support continuous treatment as their children grew older. By broadening the coverage criteria, the bill aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with ongoing autism treatment, thereby reflecting a growing acknowledgment of the importance of long-term care for individuals affected by ASD.

Summary

House Bill 451 is designed to amend the existing provisions of the Texas Insurance Code regarding health benefit plan coverage for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Specifically, the bill mandates that health benefit plans provide coverage for individuals diagnosed with ASD who are between the ages of two and 18 years. The bill emphasizes that should a patient continue to require treatment after reaching the age of six, coverage for such treatment must not be denied. This amendment seeks to ensure that necessary therapeutic services are accessible to those who require ongoing treatment as they age beyond the initial mandated coverage threshold.

Contention

While the bill is largely supported by advocates for autism awareness and healthcare access, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for health insurance providers. Some stakeholders might express worry that the expanded coverage requirements could lead to increased costs for insurers, potentially affecting premium rates. However, proponents argue that the social and health benefits of ensuring continuous treatment for children with ASD far outweigh any potential financial burdens. The debate surrounding these financial implications highlights the ongoing tension between healthcare accessibility and economic feasibility within insurance frameworks.