Illinois HB5225 allows speech-language pathologists to diagnose autism spectrum disorders in children under 3 and mandates coverage for autism.

HB5225 amends the Illinois Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Practice Act to allow speech-language pathologists to diagnose autism spectrum disorders if the child is under 3 years old and the pathologist is trained in autism diagnostic evaluation methods. The bill also mandates coverage for autism treatment through applied behavior analysis under the state's medical assistance program. Treatment must be ordered by a physician or psychologist and is subject to a maximum benefit of $36,000 per year, adjusted annually for inflation.

Illinois HB5225 allows speech-language pathologists to diagnose autism spectrum disorders in children under 3 and mandates coverage for autism.

HB5225 amends the Illinois Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Practice Act to allow speech-language pathologists to diagnose autism spectrum disorders if the child is under 3 years old and the pathologist is trained in autism diagnostic evaluation methods. The bill also mandates coverage for autism treatment through applied behavior analysis under the state's medical assistance program. Treatment must be ordered by a physician or psychologist and is subject to a maximum benefit of $36,000 per year, adjusted annually for inflation.