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SR 34

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.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 2 co-sponsors

Hawaii auditor requested to analyze financial and social impacts of mandating autism diagnosis, treatment, and behavioral analysis insurance coverage before policy decision.

Referred to HHS, WAM.
#agelimit #autism #healthinsurance #maximumcoveragebenefit #repeal
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Bill Summary · SR 34

Legislative bill overview

SR 34 is a resolution requesting Hawaii's auditor to conduct a comprehensive assessment of both the social benefits and financial costs of mandating health insurance coverage for autism diagnosis, treatment, and applied behavioral analysis (ABA) services. The resolution does not itself create a mandate but rather asks for an independent analysis to inform future policy decisions on this coverage requirement.

Why this is important

Autism diagnosis and ABA therapy can be expensive, and whether insurance should cover these services affects thousands of Hawaii families, healthcare providers, and insurers. The requested audit would provide empirical data on coverage costs, health outcomes, and economic impacts—information that typically shapes whether legislators ultimately pass a mandate. This type of analysis is foundational to evidence-based policymaking on healthcare access.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost concerns: Insurance companies and employers may worry that mandated coverage increases premiums; families and advocates counter that lack of coverage creates financial barriers to necessary care
  • ABA effectiveness and scope: While ABA is widely used for autism, some disability advocates question whether all ABA applications are appropriate and whether the mandate should have limitations
  • Equity and access: Questions about whether mandates ensure equitable access across income levels or primarily benefit those with comprehensive insurance plans

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

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