Autism Insurance Bill Moves Forward
By Emily Wagster PettusAssociated Press
JACKSON – Mississippi lawmakers are pushing bills that would require insurance companies to offer autism coverage on health plans sold in the state.
Senate Bill 2581 passed the Senate on a split vote Tuesday, with 39 senators voting for the bill and six voting against it.
Republican Sen. Will Longwitz of Madison says autism treatment can cost thousands of dollars a month, and many families can’t afford services their children need.
Opponents say the state should not require insurance companies to cover specific services. Among them is Republican Sen. Chris McDaniel of Ellisville, who says the proposal would interfere with free markets.
A similar proposal, House Bill 885, passed the House 119-0 on Jan. 29.
The House and Senate must agree on a single bill before anything can go to the governor.
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