Relating to health benefit plan coverage for treatment of autism.
Impact
The bill proposes changes to the Insurance Code, thereby directly impacting health insurance regulations in Texas. Notably, the proposed amendments would affect existing plans that are issued or renewed after January 1, 2026. This means that current coverage options may not be significantly altered prior to that date, but all new policies must comply with the new terms regarding autism treatment. This change is anticipated to provide substantial relief to families dealing with autism, as it addresses both financial and access-related issues in treatment options.
One notable point of contention surrounding SB562 relates to the financial implications for insurance providers and the potential increase in healthcare premiums. Critics might argue that the removal of age restrictions could lead to higher costs, which could, in turn, impact the availability of coverage for other conditions. However, proponents of the bill argue that the benefits gained by providing adequate autism treatment far outweigh these concerns, emphasizing the societal responsibility to support individuals with ASD throughout their lives rather than imposing arbitrary limits.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Insurance Code
Chapter 1355. Benefits For Certain Mental Disorders