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SB 788

AN ACT RELATING TO INSURANCE -- AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lou DiPalma and 7 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill requiring health insurers to cover evidence-based behavioral health treatments for autism spectrum disorder to improve access and reduce family financial burden.

05/06/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · SB 788

Legislative bill overview

SB 788 requires health insurance plans in Rhode Island to cover evidence-based behavioral health treatments for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The bill aims to ensure insurance coverage for therapies and interventions that help individuals with autism manage symptoms and improve functioning.

Why is this important

ASD diagnoses have increased significantly, and behavioral health treatments like applied behavior analysis (ABA) can be costly, often ranging from $40,000-$60,000 annually. Without insurance mandates, families face substantial out-of-pocket expenses, potentially limiting access to treatments for lower-income households. This directly impacts quality of life and long-term outcomes for individuals with autism.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Insurers and employers may resist the mandate due to increased premium costs, though supporters argue early intervention reduces long-term healthcare expenses
  • Definition of "evidence-based": Disagreement over which specific treatments qualify (ABA is widely accepted, but coverage scope and duration limits remain contested)
  • Scope of coverage: Questions about age limits, treatment hours, provider qualifications, and whether coverage extends to school-based versus clinical settings

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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