From Governor pat McCrory:
Charlotte, N.C. – Governor Pat McCrory expanded insurance coverage for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by signing the Autism Health Insurance Coverage Act into law today at a ceremony in Charlotte.
“The families and caregivers of those with autism need every tool we can provide to get their loved ones treatment,” Governor McCrory said. “This new law is not a silver bullet, but for many North Carolina families, it is a huge step in the right direction.”
The new law requires qualifying health benefit plans to provide coverage for the screening, diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, including “Adaptive Behavioral Treatment” and other intensive one-to-one therapies.
The governor thanked parents, advocacy groups and the General Assembly for their bipartisan support and work on the legislation, which has been years in the making.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the second most common developmental disability, more common than childhood cancer, cystic fibrosis and multiple sclerosis combined.
Nationally, it’s estimated that up to 1 out of every 68 children born today has some form of ASD. Evidence suggests the rate in North Carolina is 1 in 58.
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