Bill > SB0175

This bill amends existing Utah law to expand and clarify health insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorder, defining terms like "Applied behavior analysis" (ABA), which is a therapy designed to improve behavior, and "autism spectrum disorder" itself, referencing the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Key changes include adding "mental health therapist" to the list of covered providers and establishing new reporting requirements for health benefit plans to track autism assessment wait times, prior authorization practices, the number of diagnoses, and the utilization and cost of ABA treatment, with these reporting requirements set to be repealed on January 1, 2030. The bill also clarifies that insurers must include both board-certified behavior analysts and qualified mental health providers in their networks for autism treatment and allows for insurer review of treatment plans, with a provision for appeals if treatment is denied.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/SB0175.html