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Sponsors say HB 453 will expand autism coverage, boost ABA provider reimbursement
Summary
Representative Lorenz told the Insurance Committee HB 453 would strengthen coverage of autism services, require ABA providers be reimbursed at 100% of the Medicaid fee schedule, and create a supervised pathway for exam-eligible technicians to address workforce shortages.
Representative Lorenz delivered sponsor testimony on House Bill 453, which aims to expand insurance coverage and stabilize payments for autism services including applied behavior analysis (ABA).
Lorenz said current law requires coverage for autism screening, diagnosis and some treatments but leaves gaps in payment standards and workforce flexibility. "This bill will require third party commercial payers to reimburse ABA providers at least 100% of the Medicaid fee schedule," she said, adding that the measure would create a temporary, supervised pathway for exam-eligible technicians to practice while completing national certification.
Committee members asked whether 100% of Medicaid reimbursement will fully close the provider participation gap. Lorenz called 100% a "step in the right direction" and offered to quantify the total number of beneficiaries affected; she cited a prevalence figure of roughly 1 in 36 children when discussing the scale of need. The committee concluded its first hearing on HB 453 after sponsor testimony and committee Q&A.
