LANSING, Mich. -- Michigan lawmakers have approved legislation that will require insurance companies to offer coverage for autism treatments.
Final versions of the main bills were approved Thursday in the House and Senate, which will send the measures to Gov. Rick Snyder for his signature.
A previous attempt to mandate coverage for autism failed in Michigan in 2010. But the bills have plenty of high-level support this year, including from Snyder and Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, who has an autistic daughter.
A bill backed by Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville also could help soften opposition by setting up a fund to help reimburse some companies for paid claims related to diagnosis and treatment of autism.
Bills passed the House by votes of 91-19 and 84-26. The main bill passed the Senate, 30-8.