Requesting The Auditor To Assess Both Social And Financial Effects Of Proposed Mandated Health Insurance Coverage For The Diagnosis And Treatment Of Autism And For Applied Behavioral Analysis Services.
Impact
The proposed bill seeks to remove significant barriers currently faced by individuals needing ongoing treatment for autism. By addressing both the age limitations and the maximum benefit cap, HCR28 aims to improve access to necessary therapies. This legislative change would not only expand coverage but also align Hawaii’s health insurance practices with the evolving understanding of autism care, which recognizes the importance of continued support through a person's lifespan.
Summary
HCR28 is a House Concurrent Resolution proposed in the 2026 session of the Hawaii Legislature, aimed at assessing the social and financial effects of mandated health insurance coverage for autism diagnosis and treatment. Specifically, the resolution calls for the repeal of the age limit of fourteen years for insurance coverage relating to applied behavioral analysis and examines lifting the existing cap of $25,000 on benefits for these services. The underlying motive is to ensure continued support for individuals with autism beyond the age of fourteen, emphasizing the need for lifetime coverage as autism is a lifelong condition.
Contention
Despite its intended benefits, HCR28 may face contention regarding the implications of increased insurance provisions on overall healthcare costs. Stakeholders, including insurance providers and fiscal watchdogs, may raise concerns about the financial feasibility of lifting coverage limits and how these changes could impact premiums or taxpayer contributions. The resolution emphasizes the need for a comprehensive assessment by the Auditor, which is key to evaluating the long-term sustainability of these proposed health mandates and their broader effects on the insurance landscape in Hawaii.
Same As
Requesting The Auditor To Assess Both Social And Financial Effects Of Proposed Mandated Health Insurance Coverage For The Diagnosis And Treatment Of Autism And For Applied Behavioral Analysis Services.
Establishes pilot program to refer certain emergency department patients for development of coordinated behavioral health care treatment and support services plan.