Have you heard about the Autism Insurance Bill that is happening this session?  This bill for the 2008 legislative session will require private insurance policies covering groups with more than 50 employees to provide coverage for the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders (i.e. Asperger syndrome, Autism and PDD-NOS) and medically necessary treatment associated with the disorders. Treatment slated for coverage includes behavioral, speech, occupational and physical therapies. The bill will be introduced in mid-January when the legislative session begins. Please visit www.azautisminsurance.org  for more information and to learn how to become actively involved in ensuring the bill becomes law.

Arizona Autism organizations are planning a candlelight vigil at the State Capitol at 6 p.m. Tuesday, January 29, 2008. Anyone interested in showing their support for private insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is welcome and encouraged to attend this special community event. Candles will be provided and free parking is available. Please visit www.azautisminsurance.org for more information.

We need your help to provide this information to the families that you treat. If you could please forward the e-mail announcement below to your families as well as give them copies of the attached flyers.  We need a HUGE turn out at the Vigil to ensure that this bill passes. Also if you could please post copies of the flyers in your office as well as encourage your entire staff and families to contact their legislators asking for their support of this Autism Insurance Legislation.