House Bill 5253 and Senate Bill 788 would ensure commercial insurance companies pay at least the same rate as Medicaid for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a crucial service for children with autism.

Right now, commercial insurance companies are allowed to pay less than Medicaid for these essential services.

This new legislation aims to fix that:

WHAT IT DOES

• Requires commercial insurance to pay the same rate as Medicaid for ABA services.
• Ensures all children with autism get the support they need.
• Updates Rhode Island law to match federal and state insurance standards, improving access for families.

NEXT STEPS & SUPPORT

House Bill 5253 and Senate Bill 788 was recently heard in the House Health and Human Services Committee and is awaiting a Senate hearing.

The bills were introduced by Rep. Tina Spears and Senator Hanna Gallo with support from Rep. Michelle McGaw, Rep. Megan Cotter, Rep. Thomas Noret, Rep. Kathleen Fogarty, Rep. Jennifer Boylan, Rep. June Speakman, Rep. Teresa Tanzi, Rep. Rebecca Kislak, Rep. Stephen Casey, Senator Valarie Lawson, Senator David Tikoian, Senator Louis Dipalma, Senator Samuel Zurier, Senator Melissa Murray, Senator Tiara Mack and Senator Mark McKenney.

If you are interested in support this bill, please contact us.