News Center
Autism Speaks, State Representative L’italien, AFAM Join Massachusetts Autism Community In Applauding The House For Passing H. 4935
(July 28, 2010) MA Could Become the Twenty-Third State in the Country to Require Insurance Coverage of Autism Therapies
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Autism Speaks Joins the New Hampshire Autism Community in Applauding Governor Lynch for Signing Connor’s Law
(July 27, 2010) New Hampshire Becomes 22nd State to Enact Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
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AFAA Introduces National Public Policy Agenda to Improve the Quality and Availability of Services for Adults with Autism
(July 15, 2010) Advancing Futures for Adults with Autism (AFAA), a consortium of leading autism advocacy organizations and service providers, today unveiled a National Public Policy Agenda
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State Assembly Joins Senate In Unanimously Passing Landmark Bill Prohibiting Insurance Discrimination Against New York Individuals With Autism
(June 21, 2010) Autism Speaks Calls on Governor Paterson to Sign Landmark Bill Into Law
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It's Time for New York to Pass Autism Insurance Reform
(June 18, 2010) Some historical and legal perspective on a bill that embraces a broad approach to legislating.
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Autism Speaks Applauds Missouri Governor Nixon for Enacting Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(June 11, 2010) Missouri Becomes the 21st State to End Autism Insurance Discrimination
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Autism Speaks Applauds Passage of New York State Senate Bill That Would End Insurance Discrimination Against Children With Autism
(June 9, 2010) Legislation Has Potential to Become One of the Most Comprehensive Autism Insurance Laws in the U.S.
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Vermont Governor Douglas Signs Autism Insurance Reform Bill Into Law
(May 28, 2010) Autism Speaks Joins the Vermont Autism Community In Applauding the Enactment of S. 262
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Autism Speaks Joins Congressional Children's Health Care Caucus and Congressional Autism Caucus to Host a Briefing on "Autism: The Importance of Early Detection and Intervention"
(May 27, 2010) Experts in the field of autism intervention briefed congressional staffers about early identification and treatment and current research
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Missouri State Legislature Passes Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(May 12, 2010) Autism Speaks Joins with the Autism Community to Thank the State Legislature for Passing House Bill 1311
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Autism Speaks Joins the Vermont Autism Community In Applauding State House Members For Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(May 7, 2010) Vermont State House Passes S. 262 in Unanimous Vote
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Autism Speaks Joins the New Hampshire Autism Community in Applauding State Senate Members For Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(May 6, 2010) Autism Speaks yesterday joined New Hampshire familiesin applauding the members of the State Senate for their passage of House Bill 569, also known as Connor’s Law
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Iowa Becomes the 19th State to Enact Autism Insurance Reform
(April 30, 2010) Autism Speaks Pledges to Keep Working to Expand Coverage
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Autism Policy Issues: An Interview With Lorri Unumb, Autism Speaks Senior Policy Advisor & Counsel
(April 29. 2010) Lorri Unumb is interviewed by Stan Goldberg for his webcast Senior Dad: Autism Briefing Room
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Bipartisan Legislative Task Force To Hold Educational Hearings On Autism Across State
(April 27, 2010) Fiscal Impact On Families, Taxpayers Is Focus Of Hearings Announced During Michigan Autism Awareness Day At Capitol
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Kansas Becomes the 18th State to Enact Autism Insurance Reform
(April 20, 2010) Autism Speaks Pledges to Keep Working to Expand Coverage
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Governor Steve Beshear Signs Kentucky House Bill 159 Into Law
Kentucky Becomes the Seventeenth State to Enact Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Joins the Kentucky Autism Community In Applauding All State Senate Members For Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(April 2, 2010) Both House and Senate Pass HB 159 in Unanimous Votes
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Unprecedented Week for Autism Insurance Reform As Three More States Act To End Discrimination Against Children With Autism
(April 2, 2010) Battle Continues at State and Federal Levels to Ensure Every Person with Autism Has Access to Necessary Treatments
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Autism Speaks Applauds Iowa State Legislature for Passage Of Autism Insurance Coverage For State Employee Health Plan
(March 31, 2010) Reform Amendment Passes as Part of the Standing Appropriations Bill, HF 2531
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Autism Speaks Applauds Kansas State Legislature for Passage Of Autism Insurance Coverage For State Employee Health Plan But Pledges To Keep Working To Expand Coverage
(March 31, 2010) While applauding the members of the House for their passage of the House Bill 2160, which requires the state health insurance plan to provide coverage of evidence-based, medically necessary autism therapies.
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Health Care Reform: What does it mean for the Autism Community?
(March 24, 2010)
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Autism Speaks Endorses New York State Assembly Legislation That Would End Insurance Discrimination Against Individuals With Autism
(March 22, 2010) A.10372 Receives Sponsorship of Chairman of Insurance Committee and Assembly Speaker
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U.S. House Passes Health Care Reform Bill Containing Provision For Autism Insurance Reform
(March 22, 2010) Legislative Battle to End Insurers’ Discrimination Will Continue At Both the State and Federal Levels
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Autism Speaks Joins the Kentucky Autism Community In Applauding All State House Members For Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(March 16, 2010) House Passes HB 159 in Unanimous Vote
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Autism Speaks Endorses New York State Legislation That Would End Insurance Discrimination Against Children With Autism
(March 8, 2010) S.7000 Has Potential to Help Thousands With Autism Living In New York and Around the Country
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Autism Speaks Joins the Iowa Autism Community In Applauding State Senate Members For Passing Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(February 23, 2010) SF 2349 Passed in Vote of 42 to 8
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Autism Speaks Joins the Missouri Autism Community In Applauding State House Members For Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(February 19, 2010) HB 1311, was combined with a similar bill, HB 1341, and passed on the House floor by a vote of 135 yes to 18 no
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Autism Speaks Joins the Virginia Autism Community In Applauding State Senate Members For Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(February 16, 2010) Virginia Senate Passes SB 464 in Vote of 27 to 13
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The Power of a Legislative Champion
(February 4, 2010) SB 618 Passes Second Reading in MO Senate
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Autism Speaks Endorses Vermont Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(January 13, 2010) S. 262 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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Autism Speaks Joins the New Hampshire Autism Community In Applauding State House Passage Of Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(January 6, 2010) New Hampshire House Passes Connor’s Law in 213 to 147 Vote
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Connecticut SB 301 Goes Into Effect on January 1, 2010
(December 30, 2009) Autism Speaks celebrates the enactment of SB 301, which goes into effect on January 1, 2010
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U.S. Senate Passes Health Care Reform Bill Containing Provision For Autism Insurance Reform and Cures Acceleration Network
(December 25, 2009) Autism Speaks applauds the members of the U.S. Senate for yesterday passing an overall health care reform bill that contains provisions for autism insurance reform, as w
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Autism Speaks Applauds Congress for Approval Of $8 Million For DOD Autism Research Program In FY 2010
(December 21, 2009) Autism Speaks, the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization, applauds Congress for passage of the FY 2010 Department of Defense Appropriations bill, H.R. 3326, which contains $8 million for the DoD Autism Researc
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1 Percent - 1 In 110: As CDC Issues New Autism Prevalence Report, Autism Speaks Asks “What Will It Take?” For Government to Meet The Challenge Of This National Health Crisis
(December 18, 2009) Leading Autism Advocacy Organization Calls for Dramatic Increase in Federal Funding for Research and Services.
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December 11 IACC Meeting
(December 11, 2009) The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) met on Friday, December 11, via conference call and webinar accessible to the public.
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Autism Speaks Endorses New Federal Legislation to Prevent Abuse Of Children With Autism And Other Disabilities At School
(December 9, 2009) – Autism Speaks today endorsed the Preventing Harmful Restraint and Seclusion in Schools Act (H.R. 4247)
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Autism Speaks Joins the Ohio Autism Community In Applauding State House Passage Of Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(December 8, 2009) Ohio House Bill 8 Passed by State House in 57 to 39 Vote
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New Study Adds To Evidence of Effectiveness of Behavioral Health Treatments for Children With Autism
(December 2, 2009) Earlier this week, a study led by Autism Speaks Chief Science Officer, Geraldine Dawson, Ph.D., on an early intervention program was released in the journal Pediatrics.
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IACC 2008 Summary of Advances in Autism Research Selects Autism Speaks' Funded Research
(November 19, 2009) the Combating Autism Act requires that the IACC prepare an annual summary of advances in autism research.
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Autism Speaks Hosts 4th Annual Autism Law Summit
(November 16, 2009) Volunteer advocates from eighteen states gathered in St. Louis last weekend for the 4th annual Autism Law Summit.
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Autism Speaks, Washington, DC Councilmembers Tommy Wells And Muriel Bowser Announce Introduction Of Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(November 16, 2009) Autism Speaks Joined Washington, DC Councilmember Tommy Wells to announce the introduction of legislation to reform health insurance for children with autism in the District.
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Judith Ursitti, Autism Speaks Regional Director of Advocacy Relations, Receives 2009 Margaret L. Bauman, MD Award for Excellence in Serving the Autism Community
(November 9, 2009) Autism Speaks applauds Judith Ursitti, Regional Director of State Advocacy Relations, for receiving the 2009 Margaret L. Bauman, MD Award for Excellence in Serving the Autism Community
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U.S. House Passes Health Insurance Reform Bill Containing Provision for Autism Insurance Reform
(November 8, 2009) Autism Speaks, the nation's largest autism science and advocacy organization, today applauds the members of the U.S. House of Representatives for passing a health care reform bill that contains a provision for autism insurance reform
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Autism Speaks Joins New York Autism Community In Calling For An End To Autism Insurance Discrimination In The Empire State
(October 23, 2009)Special Joint Senate Committee Hearing Explores Legislation Requiring Insurers to Cover Autism Diagnosis and Treatment
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October 23, 2009 IACC Meeting Summary
(October 23, 2009) The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) met on Friday, October 23, at the National Institutes of Health, in Bethesda, Md.
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Autism Speaks, State Representative L’italien, AFAM Join Massachusetts Autism Community In Calling For An End To Autism Insurance Discrimination
(October 21, 2009) Autism Speaks, State Representative Barbara L’Italien, and Advocates For Autism of Massachusetts (AFAM) today joined parents of children with autism and other autism advocates in calling on the state legislature to pa
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Senate Finance Committee Passes Health Insurance Reform Bill Containing Menendez Amendment for Autism Insurance Reform
(October 13, 2009) -- Autism Speaks today applauds the members of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee for their 14 to 9 passage of a health care reform bill, the America’s Health Future Act, co
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Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius Pens Op-Ed on Administration's Efforts to Fight the Autism Health Crisis, Secure Federal Autism Insurance Reform
(October 5, 2009) Today, Health and Human Services Department Secretary Kathleen Sebelius released an op-ed, entitled Fight to Overcome Autism Gets Major Boost, Higher Priority
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Obama Announces $85 Million in Stimulus Funds for Autism Research
(September 30, 2009) President Barack Obama announced a plan on Wednesday to spend $5 billion on medical and scientific research as part of an overall $100 billion Recovery Act investment in science and technology
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Senate Finance Committee Passes Autism Insurance Reform Amendment To “America's Healthy Future Act Of 2009”
(September 25, 2009) Key Senate Committee Stands Up for Families’ Access to Insurance Coverage of Autism Therapies
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Autism Votes Shares Mid-Year Accomplishments
(September 3, 2009) In 2009, seven states passed autism insurance reform legislation, bringing the nationwide total to 15. This mid-year review focuses on legislative successes and identifies current and future priorities.
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Kentucky State Legislature Holds Joint Hearing on Autism Insurance Reform
(August 25, 2009) Today, the Joint Banking and Insurance Committee held a hearing on autism insurance reform at the Kentucky State Capital.
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Governor Jon Corzine Signs Autism Reform Bill in New Jersey
(August 13, 2009) State Becomes Fifteenth in the Nation to Enact Autism Insurance Reform
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Senate Committee Hears Testimony on Autism
(August 5, 2009) U.S. Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, chaired a hearing on the state of autism research, treatments and interventions.
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House Approves $8 Million for DoDARP for FY 2010
(August 1, 2009) In a vote of 400-30, the U.S. House has approved $8 million in funding for the Department of Defense Autism Research Program (DoD-ARP) for Fiscal Year 2010.
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House Energy and Commerce Committee Passes Autism Insurance Reform Amendment to “America’s Affordable Health Choices Act Of 2009”
(July 31, 2009) Key House Committee Stands Up for Families’ Access to Insurance Coverage of Autism Therapies
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Autism Speaks Joins the Michigan Autism Community In Applauding State House Members for Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
Michigan House Passes HB 4476 and HB 4183
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Congressman Mike Doyle, Chair of the Congressional Autism Caucus, Makes Historic Pledge to the Autism Community
(July 16, 2009) Rep. Doyle pledges to seek autism insurance reform as part of the federal health care reform bill.
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Autism Speaks Launches TV Ad Campaign Calling On Congress to End Insurance Discrimination Against Children With Autism
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Autism Speaks Applauds Wisconsin Legislature And Governor Jim Doyle For Enacting Autism Insurance Reform Through The Budget Bill
(June 30, 2009) Wisconsin Becomes Fourteenth State in the Nation with Comprehensive Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Joins The New Jersey Autism Community In Applauding State Legislature For Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(June 25, 2009) New Jersey Becomes the 14th State to Pass Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Joins the New Jersey Autism Community In Applauding State Senate Passage Of Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(June 18, 2009) New Jersey S.1651 Passed by State Senate in Overwhelming 35 to 0 Vote
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Autism Speaks Applauds Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell for Enacting Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(June 10, 2009) Connecticut Becomes Thirteenth State in the Nation with Comprehensive Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Launches Radio Ad Campaign Urging Ohio Legislators To Include Autism Insurance Reform Measure In State Budget
(June 10, 2009) Listen to the Autism Speaks Ohio Radio Ad!
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Alaska Governor Sarah Palin Attends 2009 Autism Speaks Walk Now for Autism in Westchester
(June 7, 2009) Walkers at the 2009 Autism Speaks Westchester/Fairfield Walk Now for Autism today were joined by special guest, Alaska Governor and former Vice Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin.
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Autism Speaks Applauds Colorado Governor Bill Ritter Jr. For Enacting Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(June 3, 2009) Colorado Becomes Twelfth State in the Nation with Comprehensive Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Lauds Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s Introduction Of Senate Bill Expanding Military Insurance Coverage Of Autism Therapies
(June 2, 2009) Autism Speaks today applauded Senator Kristen Gillibrand’s (D-NY) introduction of the Uniformed Services with Autism (USA) Heroes Act, a senate companion bill to H.R. 1600.
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Autism Speaks Applauds Nevada Governor Jim Gibbons For Enacting Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(May 29,2009) Nevada Becomes Eleventh State in the Nation with Comprehensive Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Joins the Connecticut Autism Community In Applauding the State Legislature For Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(May 28, 2008) Connecticut Becomes the 13th State to Pass Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Joins The Nevada Autism Community In Applauding The State Legislature For Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(May 27, 2009) Nevada Becomes the 12th State to Pass Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Co-Founder Bob Wright Testifies At New Jersey Legislature Hearing In Support Of Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(May 18, 2009) Autism Speaks Co-founder Bob Wright today testified before the New Jersey Assembly Appropriations Committee alongside Assembly Speaker Joseph J. Roberts, Jr., parents of children with autism and other autism advocates.
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Autism Speaks Hails the Introduction Of The Landmark Autism Treatment Acceleration Act In the U.S. House Of Representatives
(May 15, 2009) Wide-Ranging Legislation Addresses Key Issues Facing the Autism Community, Including Services for Adults and Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Joins the Connecticut Autism Community In Applauding State Assembly Members for Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(May 15, 2009) Connecticut Senate Bill 301 Passes by State Senate in Vote of 35 to 0
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SB 244 Passed By Colorado Legislature – Bill Heads to Governor’s Desk
(May 6, 2009) Colorado’s state legislature has passed Senate Bill 244
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Autism Speaks Applauds Representatives Sestak, Jones, and Rodriguez for Introducing H.R. 1600
(April 30, 2009) Autism Speaks today thanked Representatives Joe Sestak, Walter B. Jones, and Ciro Rodriguez for their introduction of H.R. 1600.
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Autism Speaks Endorses Tennessee Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(April 30, 2009) HB 2105 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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Autism Speaks Joins the Minnesota Autism Community In Applauding State House Members for Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(April 28, 2009) Amended Omnibus Health and Human Services Finance Bill Passed by State House Last Night Includes Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Hails Senator Arlen Specter’s Planned Introduction of the Cures Acceleration Network Act
(April 25, 2009) Legislation Would Dramatically Boost NIH Funding and Establish New Federal Agency Focused on Bridging the Wide Gap Between Scientific Discovery and Treatments for Diseases and Disorders
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Autism Speaks Joins The Nevada Autism Community In Denouncing Assemblyman Settelmeyer’s Veiled Attempt To Dismantle Support For Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(April 24, 2009) A single assemblyman has unexpectedly decided to launch an effort to derail the bill’s further progress, compelling Autism Speaks and other advocates to decry the legislator’s tactics and motive.
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Autism Speaks Joins the Missouri Autism Community In Applauding State Senate Members for Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(April 23, 2009) Missouri Senate Bill 167 Passed on Senate Floor
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Autism Speaks Joins the Nevada Autism Community In Applauding State Assembly Members for Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(April 21, 2009) Nevada Assembly Bill 162 Passes in Vote of 39 to 2
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Autism Speaks Joins Kansas Parents and Autism Advocates In Denouncing Insurance Industry Claims
(April 20, 2009) Coventry Insurance initiates a campaign of misinformation to prevent Kansas’ families’ access to healthcare coverage
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Autism Speaks Joins the Montana Autism Community In Applauding State Legislators for Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(April 9, 2009) Montana Becomes the 10th State to Pass Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Applauds New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson for Enacting Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(April 3, 2009) New Mexico Becomes Ninth State in the Nation with Comprehensive Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Hails the Introduction of the Landmark Autism Treatment Acceleration Act
(April 2, 2009) Wide-Ranging Legislation Addresses Key Issues Facing the Autism Community, Including Services for Adults and Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Endorses Oregon Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(March 31, 2009) HB 3000 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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Autism Speaks Endorses Maine Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(March 28, 2009) LD 1198 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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Autism Speaks Applauds Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) for Reintroducing the Helping HANDS for Autism Act
(March 25, 2009) Autism Speaks joined with other autism organizations today in praising Senator Robert Menendez for reintroducing the Helping HANDS for Autism Act.
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Autism Speaks Joins the New Mexico Autism Community In Applauding State Legislators for Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(March 20, 2009) New Mexico Becomes the 9th State to Pass Autism Insurance Reform
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Autism Speaks Endorses Alaska Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(March 19, 2009) House Bill 187 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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The Council for Affordable Health Insurance Puts Cost of Autism Insurance Coverage at About 1 Percent
(March 19, 2009) Report release by the Council for Affordable Health Insurance (CAHI)
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Autism Speaks Endorses Arkansas Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(March 18, 2009) Senate Bill 913 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment.
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Autism Speaks Endorses Colorado Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(March 18, 2009) Senate Bill 09-244 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment.
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Autism Speaks Joins Georgia Families in Praising Senate for Unanimously Approving Study Committee of Insurance Issue
(March 12, 2009) - Ava’s Law Remains Necessary to Change Insurance Law and End Healthcare Discrimination Against Children with Autism
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Autism Speaks Joins Georgia Parents and Autism Advocates in Denouncing Georgia Chamber's "Trillion" Dollar Claim
(March 10, 2009) Georgia Chamber of Commerce initiates a campaign of lies and smears to prevent Georgia’s families’ access to healthcare coverage.
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Autism Speaks Endorses Connecticut Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(March 9, 2009) Committee Bill 301 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) Releases Strategic Plan for Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
(March 6, 2009) On March 5, 2009, the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) released the IACC Strategic Plan for Autism Spectrum Disorder Research, which will advise the federal government on the requirements and opportunities for autism resear
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Autism Speaks Endorses New York Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
S.2366, A.6001 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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Democrats Decry Erectile Dysfunction Coverage When Autism Coverage is Denied
(February 25, 2009) Article by AP regarding the failure of state legislators in Oklahoma to pass the autism insurance reform bill, Nicks Law
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Autism Speaks Applauds the Introduction of the ABLE Accounts Act - s. 493
(February 27, 2009) Autism Speaks, the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization, today applauded Senators Robert Casey (D-PA), Christopher Dodd (D-CT) and Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) for introducing S. 493, the ABLE Accounts Act of 2009,
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Autism Speaks Opposes Changes to Clay's Law
(February 27, 2009) Autism Speaks has learned that critical elements have been stripped from Clay's Law (Senate Bill 43) that will cause the bill to be an ineffective mandated offering
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President Obama Includes Funding For Autism In His FY 2010 Budget Proposal
(February 26, 2009) Today President Barack Obama unveiled a Fiscal Year 2010 budget proposal that includes $211 million for the Combating Autism Act (CAA).
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Autism Speaks Calls for $200 Million of Stimulus Funds for Autism Research
(January 20, 2009) - As a result of the stimulus plan recently signed into law by President Obama, (the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act), the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will receive more than $10 billion in new funding over the next two ye
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Autism Speaks Joins Kansas Families to Answer Legislator Questions Raised About Kate’s Law
(February 20, 2009) Kate’s Law is Necessary to Change Insurance Law and End Healthcare Discrimination Against Children with Autism.
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Autism Speaks Endorses Iowa Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(February 19, 2009) House File 1/Senate File 1 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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Autism Speaks Endorses Ohio Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(February 19, 2009) House Bill 8 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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Autism Speaks Endorses Wisconsin Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(February 19, 2009) Senate Substitute Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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Autism Speaks Endorses Georgia Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(February 18, 2009) Autism Speaks today announced its support for Senate Bill 161 and House Bill 426
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Brandon's Bill Passed by Montana Senate Committee
(February 17, 2009) Senate Committee Passes Brandon's Bill
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Autism Speaks Endorses Nevada Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(February 13, 2009) AB 162 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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UPDATE: See Our Revised Model Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(February 11, 2009)
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Autism Insurance Reform Bill is Passed by the New Mexico State Senate in Unanimous Vote
(February 9, 2009) Today the New Mexico Senate voted unanimously to pass Senate Bill 39
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Families Affected By Autism Call On Senate Committee To Advance Bill Ending Healthcare Discrimination Against Children With Autism
(February 9, 2009) Parents of children with autism and other advocates gathered today at the State Capitol, calling on members of the Senate’s Commerce and Labor Committee to vote to advance Senate Bill 1260 for a vote by the full Senate.
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Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) Holds Meeting to Discuss the 2008 NIH Strategic Plan for Autism Research
(February 6, 2009) An important meeting took place in Washington, DC, on February 4, during which members of the IACC discussed the NIH strategic plan for autism research
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Minnesota House Committee Passes HF 359
(February 5, 2009) Yesterday, the Minnesota House Health Care and Human Services Policy and Ovesight Committee held a hearing on HF 359
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Autism Speaks Endorses Kentucky Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(February 4, 2009) House Bill 190 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment.
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Autism Speaks Endorses New Mexico Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(February 3, 2009) SB 39 and HB 155 Would End Health Care Discrimination Against Children with Autism by Requiring Coverage of Diagnosis and Treatment
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Autism Insurance Reform Bill Introduced in Minnesota State Legislature; Hearing to Be Held on Wednesday Feb. 4!
(February 2, 2009) State Representative Kim Norton and State Senator Linda Scheid have introduced bills in the Minnesota House and Senate to ensure that treatment for children with autism is covered by private health insurers.
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Health Benefit for Children with Autism Costs $1.90 per Month per Person
(February 2, 2009) Today Autism Speaks released a cost estimate prepared by Oliver Wyman Actuarial Consulting of House Bill 1588 and Senate Bill 1260.
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Autism Speaks Endorses Montana Autism Insurance Reform Legislation
(January 30, 2009) Autism Speaks, the nation’s largest autism advocacy organization, today announced its support for Senate Bill 234, also known as “Brandon’s Bill,”
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Autism Insurance Coverage Bill Introduced in Maryland House and Senate
January 29, 2009) - Today, Delegate Kirill Reznik and Senator Kathy Klausmeier, with the strong support of Attorney General Doug Gansler have introduced bills in the House and Senate to ensure that treatment for children with autism is covered by insurers
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Connecticut Families Participate in the Second Autism Speaks Autism Forum
(January 28, 2009) Crowding the Hall at New Life Church in Meriden, Conn. this past Sunday, families affected by autism all across Connecticut had the opportunity to learn more about what legislative actions were moving towards helping those living with
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Autism Insurance Reform Bill Introduced in Massachusetts
(January 22, 2009) Last week, an autism insurance reform bill was introduced in the Massachusetts legislature.
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Autism Insurance Reform Bill Introduced in Missouri
(January 22, 2009) Last week, an autism insurance reform bill has been introduced in the Missouri legislature.
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Autism Insurance Reform Bill Introduced in Utah
(January 22, 2009) Today, an autism insurance reform bill was introduced in the Utah State legislature
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Obama Administration Publishes Autism Agenda on Whitehouse.gov
(January 22, 2009) The newly re-launched White House website prominently features autism as part of the Disabilities agenda.
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Barack Obama Sworn in as 44th President
(January 20, 2009) in our Nation's Capitol, millions watched the swearing in of our 44th President, Barack Obama.
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"Kate's Law," the Autism Insurance Reform Bill, Introduced in Kansas
(January 19, 2009) Last week Kate's Law was introduced in the Kansas legislature.
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Autism Insurance Bill Introduced in Washington State
(January 19, 2009) Last week House Bill 1210 and Senate Bill 5203 were introduced.
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Autism Insurance Reform Bill Introduced in Mississippi
(January 19, 2009) Last week HB 720 was introduced in the Mississippi House.
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Summary from IACC Meeting to Finalize Strategic Plan for Autism Research - Autism Speaks Withdraws Support for the Strategic Plan for Autism Research
(January 15, 2009) The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) met on Wednesday, January 14, at the NIH Neuroscience Center Building in Rockville, MD.
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Virginia Families Rally at Capitol to Call for an End to Healthcare Discrimination Against Children With Autism
(January 15, 2009) This morning Autism Speaks joined parents of children with autism and other advocates at a rally in support of House Bill 1588.
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IACC Nears Completion of Strategic Plan for Autism Research
(December 15, 2008) The IACC met on Friday to discuss the Stretgic Plan for Autism Research
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New York State Commission on Property Tax Relief Report to Governor Recommends Severe Cuts to Special Education
(December 11, 2008) On December 1, 2008, the New York State Commission on Tax Relief, chaired by Thomas Suozzi, released a report proposing that the state government make severe cuts in funding for special education.
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Kansas LEPC Recommends Passage of Kate's Law
(November 21, 2008) The Kansas Legislative Educational Planning Committee (LEPC) voted today to endorse Kate's Law and introduce it as a committee bill to be heard in the 2009 legislative session.
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Illinois House and Senate Pass SB 934... Now On to the Governor!
(November 20, 2008) Today the Illinois Senate followed in the steps of the Illinois House and passed Senate Bill 934.
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The Virginia MBC Votes to Recommend House Bill 1588
November 19, 2008) Today the Virginia Mandated Benefits Commission voted 6-4 to recommend House Bill 1588
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President Elect Barack Obama on Autism: "A new dawn of American leadership is at hand"
(November 5, 2008) President Elect Barack Obama's win last night may prove to be a win for the autism community as well.
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The Washington Times Features Commentary on Autism Insurance Reform By Autism Speaks' Senior Policy Advisor & Counsel, Stuart Spielman, and Brooking Institution Senior Fellow, Michael O'Hanlon
(October 29, 2008) In their last debate, Barack Obama and John McCain both graciously expressed concern about children with autism.
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CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta Reports on the Virginia Autism Insurance Bill
(October 22, 2008) Yesterday, CNN posted a report from Dr. Sanjay Gupta on the Virginia autism insurance reform bill.
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The Associated Press Covers Autism Insurance Initiative
(October 20, 2008) In an article entitled Parents Press for Autism Insurance Laws, the Associated press provides a good look at the push for autism insurance reform in the states.
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Presidential Candidates Discuss Autism in Debate
(October 16, 2008) During the 3rd Presidential Debate, held on October 15 at Hofstra University, both candidates spoke about autism.
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Autism Insurance Bill Introduced in Virginia
(October 2, 2008) Legislation has been prefiled for introduction in Virginia to require insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorders.
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Parents, Advocates, and Legislators Hit the Ground Running for Virginia Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(September 30, 2008) Yesterday, Autism Speaks joined with parents in Richmond, Virginia for a hearing before the Special Advisory Commission on Mandated Health Insurance Benefits on the autism insurance reform bill.
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President Bush Signs Bill Funding DoD Autism Reasearch Program for Third Straight Year
(September 30, 2008) Today, President Bush signed into law H.R. 2638.
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House Passes FY 09 Defense Appropriations Bill Containing $8 Million in Funding for Autism Research
(September 25, 2008) Yesterday, the Fiscal Year 2009 Defense Appropriations bill was passed by the full House by a vote of 370-58.
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Autism Takes Center Stage at the RNC
(September 5, 2008) Autism was a part of the Republican National Convention this week.
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Autism Takes Center Stage at the DNC
(August 28, 2008) Autism was part of the Democratic National Convention this week.
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Florida Governor Charlie Crist Appoints Elizabeth Emken, Autism Speaks Vice President of Government Relations, to the Developmental Disabilities Compact Workgroup
(August 15, 2008) Florida Governor Charlie Crist announces the appointment of Elizabeth Emken to the Developmental Disabilities Compact Workgroup
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Autism Speaks Applauds Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal For Signing Autism Insurance Reform Legislation Into Law
(July 16, 2008) Autism Speaks today commended Governor Bobby Jindal for signing into law HB 958, which makes Louisiana one of eight states, to date, that have ended insurance discrimination against children with autism.
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Autism Speaks Applauds Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell For Signing Into Law The Strongest Autism Insurance Reform Legislation In The Nation
(July 9, 2008) Autism Speaks today commended Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell for signing into law the most comprehensive autism insurance bill in the nation.
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Autism Speaks Applauds Pennsylvania House Speaker Dennis O’brien and State Lawmakers For Passing Strongest Autism Insurance Mandate In The Nation
(July 3, 2008) Autism Speaks today applauded Pennsylvania House Speaker Dennis O’Brien and state lawmakers for passing the strongest autism insurance reform legislation in the country.
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The TODAY Show: Should Insurance Cover Autism?
June 12, 2008
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Louisiana Legislature Passes Autism Insurance Bill
(Baton, Rouge, LA - June 11, 2008) Louisiana Senate Unanimously Passes HB 958
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Autism Insurance Bill Moving Forward in New Jersey
(June 6, 2008) New Jersey has become the latest state to address autism insurance reform legislation.
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Unanimous Approval of HB 958 in Both Louisiana Senate Committees
(June 5, 2008) House Bill 958, the autism insurance reform bill has passed unanimously in both the Louisiana Senate Insurance Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee.
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Autism Insurance Bill Passed in Illinois House!
(May 29, 2008) Senate Bill 1900 passed the IL House today.
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Autism Insurance Reform Bill Passed By the Louisiana House!
(May 29, 2008) Louisiana House passes House Bill 958.
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Autism Speaks Applauds Florida Governor Charlie Crist and State Legislators for Passing Autism Insurance Legislation
(May 2, 2008) Autism Speaks today joined Florida families in applauding Governor Charlie Crist and the state's legislators for passing Senate Bill 2654, which will ultimately require insurance carriers to provide coverage of evidence-based, medically nece
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HB 958 Passes UNANIMOUSLY in the Louisiana House Insurance Committee Hearing!
(May 1, 2008) Yesterday, the LA House Insurance Committee held a hearing on House Bill 958, the autism insurance reform bill.
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Autism Speaks Applauds Sen. Menendez's New Plan to Support Families Dealing With Autism
(April 28, 2008) U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) unveiled new legislation today to support families dealing with autism spectrum disorders.
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RALLY of the Steps of the MI State Capitol for Autism Insurance Reform!
(April 22, 2008) A rally was held today on the steps of the state capitol to push state legislators to hold hearings in both houses on the autism insurance bills.
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Missouri House Holds Hearing on Autism Insurance Reform Bill
(April 16, 2008) Yesterday, the Missouri House held a hearing on House Bill 2351.
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Update on Florida House Bill 1291
(April 9, 2008) Last night, Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio's Select Committee on Autism And Developmental Disorders held its first meeting.
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Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio Announces the Creation of the House Select Committee on Autism and Developmental Disorders
(April 4, 2008) Today Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio announced the creation of a special committee, the House Select Committee on Autism and Developmental Disorders.
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Autism Insurance Bill Introduced in Michigan State Legislature
(April 3, 2008) An insurance reform bill has been introduced in the Michigan State Legislature.
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Florida Senate Health Policy Committee Passes SB 2654!
(April 2, 2008) Yesterday the Florida State Sneate Health Policy Committee held a hearing on SB 2654.
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Pennsylvania Senate Banking & Insurance Committee Holds Hearing on HB 1150
(April 2, 2008) The most important day for autism insurance coverage in Pennsylvania took place yesterday.
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Autism Insurance Bill Introduced in Louisiana
(March 28, 2008) Legislation has been introduced in Louisiana to require insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorders.
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Autism Speaks Joins the Arizona Autism Community in Hailing Governor Janet Napolitano and State Legislators for Enacting Autism Insurance Legislation
(March 21, 2008) Arizona Becomes Latest State to Revise its Insurance Laws to Require Coverage of Evidence-Based, Medically Necessary Autism Therapies.
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PA Autism Insurance Bill Senate Hearing Set for APRIL 1, 2008
(March 19, 2008) The most important day for autism insurance coverage in Pennsylvania is approaching.
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Autism Insurance Bills PASS First Round of Committee Meetings!!
(March 18, 2008) Bills pass in Florida House and Senate Committees
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Florida State Legislature to Hold Committee Hearings on Autism Insurance Bills!
(March 17, 2008) Tomorrow, both the Florida State House and State Senate will be holding hearings on autism insurance reform legislation.
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Dodd/Collins Amendment Passes
(March 14, 2008) Amendment will increase funding for autism research.
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Autism Insurance Bill Introduced in Missouri State General Assembly
(March 13, 2008) Autism insurance reform was introduced in the state of Missouri.
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Senator Chris Dodd Introduces the Disability Savings Act of 2008 at the Autism Speaks Hill Day 2008
(March 11, 2008) The Act is designed to encourage individuals with autism (and other disabilities) and their families to save for disability-related expenses.
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Autism Insurance Bill Introduced in Florida State Legislature
(March 7, 2008) Legislation has been introduced in Florida to require insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorders.
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Elizabeth Emken Appointed to Florida Task Force on Autism Spectrum Disorders
(March 7, 2008) Florida Governor Charlie Crist announced the creation of the Task Force on Autism Spectrum Disorders
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Insurance Bill Introduced in Connecticut State Legislature
(February 29, 2008) Connecticut Legislature introduces autism insurance reform bill
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Autism Insurance Bill Introduced in Illinois State Legislature
(February 21, 2008) Illinois Senate introduces autism insurance reform bill
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Autism Insurance Bill Introduced in Mississippi State Legislature
(February 7, 2008) Mississippi House introduces autism insurance reform legislation
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Autism Insurance Bill Introduced in Arizona State Legislature
(January 29, 2008) State Sen. Aguirre Introduces "Steven's Law"
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Subcommittee Holds Hearing on the Role of Medicaid for Americans with Disabilities
(January 16, 2008) The House Committee on Energy and Commerce - Subcommittee on Health investigates Medicaid's role in the lives of individuals with disabilitie
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Autism Speaks Announces Multi-State Insurance Legislation Campaign
(December 27, 2007) Florida, California, Michigan and Pennsylvania are Key Battlegrounds in Effort to Change Insurance Laws and Require Coverage of Medically Necessary Services
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President Signs Bill Authorizing Funding of Combating Autism Act
(December 26, 2007) $162 million appropriated to fund autism research, services and treatment
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US House of Representatives Approve Funding for Combating Autism Act
(December 19, 2007) $162 million appropriated to fund autism research, services and treatment
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Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee Holds First Meeting
(December 3, 2007) The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) meets for the first time since being reconstituted as part of the Combating Autism Act of 2006.
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HHS Secretary Leavitt Announces Members of the New Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee
(November 28, 2007)Secretary Mike Leavitt announces the members appointed to the Department of Health and Human Services' new Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee.
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Override Veto Lost by Two Votes
(November 20, 2007) U.S. House of Representatives fails to override President Bush's veto of the fiscal year 2008 Labor, Health and Human Services appropriations bill by a margin of just two votes.
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Combating Autism Act Funding Jeopardized
(November 15, 2007) U.S. House of Representatives vote to sustain President Bush's veto of the fiscal year 2008 Labor, Health and Human Services appropriations bill.
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Autism Speaks Statement of Support
(November 13, 2007) Autism Speaks urges all Members of Congress to vote to override President Bush's veto of the Labor, HHS Appropriations Bill.
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Conference Committee Approves Increase in Budget for Autism Services and Treatment
(November 1, 2007) Joint House and Senate conference committee approves $37 million for autism services and treatment programs at the Health and Human Services's Health Resources and Services Administration.
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Senate HELP Committee Releases Thimerosal Report
(September 28, 2007) U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP Committee) releases a report entitled, Thimerosal and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Alleged Misconduct by Governmen
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National Public Radio Covers New Jersey Autism Case
(September 26, 2007) National Public Radio program "Morning Edition" broadcasts a story about a New Jersey Boy with Autism.
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New Jersey Governor Corzine Signs Bills on Autism
(September 12, 2007) New Jersey Governor Jon S. Corzine signs into law a package of seven bills relating to autism spectrum disorders.
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New York Governor Spitzer Signs 'Burden of Proof' Act
(August 16, 2007) Law to Require School District Bear Burden of Proof in Special Education Hearings
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House Approves $8 Million for the Autism Spectrum Disorders Research Program
(August 5, 2007) The "Fiscal Year 2008 Defense Appropriations Act" passed by the House of Representatives contains an eight million dollar targeted appropriation for the Autism Spectrum Disorders Research Program (ASDRP).
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Autism Speaks Applauds Speaker Dennis O'Brien and the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for Passage of Historic State Autism Legislation
(July 17, 2007) Bill mandating that private insurers provide coverage for necessary autism treatments now awaits state senate vote
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Critical Vote Approaches On Key Pennsylvania Insurance Bill
(June 29, 2007) The next 48 hours are crucial to getting measure passed.
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Senate Subcommittee Approves Funding for CAA
(June 21, 2007) Appropriations Bill for CAA funding moves to full Senate Appropriations Committee
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Texas Governor Signs Autism Insurance Bill Into Law
(June 15, 2007) Texas Governor Rick Perry signs legislation mandating improved insurance coverage for children with autism.
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South Carolina Autism Insurance Bill Passed
(June 7, 2007) Legislature Overrides Governor's Veto to Pass Comprehensive Insurance Mandate.
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Autism Speaks™ Leadership Joins Pennsylvania House Speaker Dennis O'Brien in Announcing Introduction of Historic State Autism Legislation
(April 18, 2007) Bill Mandates That Private Insurers Provide Coverage for Early Intervention Services and Therapies for Individuals with Autism.
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Autism Speaks Lauds Congressional Approval of Landmark $7.5 Million Military Appropriation for Autism Research
(September 26, 2006) Years of Advocacy Result in Legislation Creating First Department of Defense-Sponsored Medical Research Program for Autism.
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Santorum: 'Past Time' for Help on Autism
(June 16, 2006) Senator Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania discussed the Combating Autism Act in his weekly column.
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Autism Speaks Lauds Unprecedented House of Representatives Military Appropriation for Autism Research
(June 13, 2006) Landmark Spending Proposal, Which Recognizes the Unique Plight of Military Families Impacted by Autism, Comes After More Than Three Years of Advocacy by Autism Speaks Volunteers.
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Testimony of Ann Gibbons, Autism Speaks
(May 19, 2006) Autism Speaks Board Member Ann Gibbons presented testimony before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education.
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