Bill > A03896

This bill amends the New York insurance law to enhance and clarify coverage for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) treatments across various insurance policies. The bill introduces a new maximum benefit of 680 hours of treatment per calendar year for applied behavior analysis (ABA) and developmental, individual-differences, relationship-based treatment, while ensuring that insurers cannot deny or terminate coverage solely based on an ASD diagnosis. The legislation expands the definition of ASD to include a broader range of conditions and adds a specific definition for "developmental, individual-differences, relationship-based treatment," which is described as a floortime intervention focused on promoting developmental progress and addressing challenges associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. The bill also updates the types of therapeutic care covered, replacing outdated terminology with a more comprehensive list of professional services including counseling, occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work, and speech and language pathology. Additionally, the bill mandates that providers of behavioral health treatment be subject to professional standards and supervision, with regulations to be developed by the superintendent in consultation with health and education commissioners. The changes apply to individual, group, and blanket insurance policies, ensuring consistent coverage and support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder across different insurance types.

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https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3896