If enacted, this bill would amend current Arizona statutes regarding insurance coverage for behavioral therapy related to autism spectrum disorder. Specifically, it would remove the existing maximum benefit caps of $50,000 for individuals up to 9 years old and $25,000 for those aged 9 to 16 and eliminate these caps entirely for eligible persons who are 16 years old or younger. Additionally, the definition of "autism spectrum disorder" means would be updated to a pervasive, developmental disorder that meets the criteria for autism spectrum disorder as defined in the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The bill also clarifies that the coverage required by this section is subject to all the terms and conditions of the subscription contract, but does not prevent insurers from imposing deductibles, coinsurance, or other cost-sharing measures related to the coverage. Overall, these changes aim to enhance access to necessary behavioral therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder by removing financial limitations and updating the legal definition to align with current medical standards.

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