Autism groups return to the State Capitol for legislative fix

Last year’s General Assembly session brought a hard-fought victory for Virginia families affected by autism.   Lawmakers approved legislation mandating insurance coverage for children under the age of six, but in the months since, their celebration has turned to frustration, and they’re back in Richmond asking for help.

Jackie Jones describes her son Max as "a rock star." Holding his picture, she says his progress is proof that certain autism therapies work, but she fears for the families of young children who won’t receive the same kind of care.

"The really frustrating part is the kids who are four years old right now will never see the benefit of this bill being passed," she said in an interview.

The bill that continues to bring members of the Virginia Autism Project and other groups to the State Capitol required insurance companies to cover autism treatments for children under the age of six. Questions about the licensing of autism therapists has kept the benefits from flowing.

Teresa Champion is Chairman of the Virginia Autism Project.  "We’re not opposed to a license. We’re opposed to delaying implementation of this bill," she said.

Lynchburg Delegate Scott Garrett is on the House Committee now considering a fix.  "I think there is enough of a concern that we need to go forward with this and so I suspect it will pass," Garrett told News7, "but we do need to get the bill right, the bill before us, right first."

Governor McDonnell  says he wants to fix the autism coverage problem quickly. Thursday afternoon he told reporters he would sign emergency legislation if it reaches his desk.