Cover Autism Therapy in Schools

What's happening

Why it matters

1. 1

   Expands access to autism therapy during school hours. By mandating Medicaid coverage for applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy in both public and non-public K-12 schools, the bill could help students with autism access crucial support without disrupting their school day or requiring out-of-pocket spending.

2. 2

   May reduce disparities for low-income families. Medicaid recipients, who often have fewer resources to pay for supplemental therapies, would be able to access ABA therapy that might otherwise be financially out of reach, potentially narrowing gaps in treatment and educational outcomes.

3. 3

   Could impact how schools and Medicaid collaborate. The bill may require new administrative coordination between schools and Medicaid providers, possibly leading to changes in how special education services are delivered, documented, and reimbursed within school settings.

Who cares

• Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

  Will benefit from expanded Medicaid coverage for applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy during school hours, reducing out-of-pocket costs and improving access to necessary treatments.

• Public and Non-Public Schools (K-12)

  Will need to coordinate with Medicaid providers and possibly adapt policies or resources to accommodate ABA therapy during school hours.

• ABA Therapists and Service Providers

  Gain new opportunities for reimbursement through Medicaid when delivering services in school settings, potentially expanding their client base.

• Medicaid Program Administrators

  Must adjust policies, billing processes, and oversight mechanisms to include ABA therapy provided during school hours as a covered benefit.

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History

Companion bill

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