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Senate advances bill allowing some master’s-level clinicians to diagnose autism for insurance; fiscal note disputed
Summary
The Utah Senate passed first substitute Senate Bill 2 14 on party-line and cross‑aisle votes after debate over whether the bill will increase state insurance costs. The bill allows certain master’s‑level therapists to diagnose autism spectrum disorder for insurance purposes if they meet training and experience requirements; sponsors and critics cl
The Utah Senate on day 35 passed first substitute Senate Bill 2 14, a bill that would allow certain master’s‑level therapists to diagnose autism spectrum disorder for insurance coverage purposes, after a floor debate that focused on the bill’s fiscal note and its potential effect on the state’s diagnostic backlog.
Sponsor Senator Kwan said the change expands who may make an insurance diagnosis beyond physicians and psychiatrists and requires diagnosing practitioners to have “education, training, and experience on autism spectrum disorder evaluation methods.” Kwan said the change does not alter scope of practice and argued it will help address the existing wait list for evaluations.
Kwan disputed the fiscal analyst’s estimate that the bill would increase insurance costs, saying the change would not create new diagnoses but would accelerate diagnosis for people already waiting to be evaluated. Kwan said the fiscal analyst was “researching” the note and that the analyst had indicated a potential revision.
Senator Fillmore asked that the bill be circled pending a revised fiscal note; Kwan declined to hold the bill and proceeded. After debate, Kwan moved that the first substitute pass. The bill passed the Senate on a roll‑call vote: 17 aye, 8 nay, 4 absent. The measure will now go to the House for consideration.
Why it matters: Supporters say allowing qualified master’s‑level clinicians to diagnose for insurance purposes could shorten wait times for evaluations and thus speed access to services. Opponents raised concerns about a potential increase in insurance costs and asked for a revised fiscal note before final passage.
Where it goes next: The bill will be transmitted to the Utah House of Representatives for further consideration.
Votes at a glance: First substitute Senate Bill 2 14 — passed 17–8 (4 absent).
