If enacted, this bill would amend several sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes related to medical insurance coverage for behavioral therapy. The most significant change would be the removal of the maximum benefit caps for behavioral therapy for individuals aged 16 and younger, which currently limits coverage to $50,000 per year for those under 9 years old and $25,000 for those aged 9 to 16. Additionally, the bill would redefine "autism spectrum disorder" to align with the latest criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, eliminating outdated diagnostic subcategories such as Asperger's syndrome.

The bill also clarifies that while insurers can impose deductibles, coinsurance, or other cost-sharing measures, they cannot deny coverage based solely on an autism diagnosis or for medically necessary behavioral therapy services. This update aims to enhance access to necessary treatments for eligible individuals while ensuring that insurance providers maintain the ability to manage costs through standard insurance practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 20-826.04, 20-1057.11, 20-1402.03, 20-1404.03, 20-1137, 20-2301
Senate Engrossed Version: 20-826.04, 20-1057.11, 20-1402.03, 20-1404.03, 20-1137, 20-2301
Chaptered Version: 20-826.04, 20-1057.11, 20-1402.03, 20-1404.03, 20-1137, 20-2301