St. Reps. Grossman, Terhar Applaud Decision to Provide Health Coverage for Autism

Release:

COLUMBUS—State Representatives Cheryl Grossman (R-Grove City) and Lou Terhar (R-Cincinnati) today applauded Governor John Kasich’s decision to include coverage for autism spectrum disorders to state employee health insurance, health insurance sold in the private market, and health insurance sold through upcoming federally managed health insurance exchange. Reps. Grossman and Terhar jointly sponsored legislation in the House to include autism to insurance coverage provided under the Mental Health Parity Act of 2007.

Rep. Grossman released the following statement:

“I am grateful to Governor Kasich for having the courage to make the right decision to provide this important coverage for the thousands of children who fall within the autism spectrum throughout Ohio. It has been heart-wrenching to hear testimony from these families who want their child to have the same opportunities as other children to succeed and be self-sufficient. As a state, it is paramount that we provide every child with the tools and services to help them succeed. I am proud that Ohio has made this important decision for our children and our families.”

Rep. Terhar released the following statement:

“As a former president and CEO, and current owner of small businesses, I applaud Governor Kasich for his courage and foresight in adding care for those afflicted with autism to Ohio’s Essential Healthcare Benefit Plan. The governor has recognized the human cost to families, and the increasing financial burden to our educational system can only be alleviated by bold and decisive action now. It is to the governor’s great credit that he has stepped forward and taken this action swiftly and decisively. The people of Ohio have been well served by their governor and his ability to ensure the future prosperity of our state.”

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism affects 1 in 88 children. Forty-seven percent of children who receive treatment will assimilate into mainstream education without aid by the time they reach the first grade, compared with just 2 percent without treatment.