A Special Message from Governor Charlie Crist, May 20, 2008

This week I have the privilege of signing three pieces of legislation that will make a real difference in Floridians’ access to health care. Today, I am signing Senate Bill 2654 that will go a long way in helping families dealing with autism.

Autism is increasing at an alarming rate, with one in 150 children being diagnosed with it, including one in 94 boys. Autism Speaks, an organization committed to autism research, has estimated that autism costs our nation over $90 billion per year, and that 67 children are diagnosed with autism each day.

The autism legislation I signed today, known as the “Window of Opportunity Act,” will help families deal with this diagnosis. This legislation will increase coverage for services for autism and allow the Office of Insurance Regulation to convene a workgroup that includes health insurance carriers, self-insured employers, two designees of the Governor, one designee of the President of the Senate, and one designee of the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

The workgroup will negotiate an agreement between insurers and health maintenance organization carriers that will include increased coverage for therapies and behavior analysis, improved information to consumers regarding covered therapies, and protection for consumers denied claims due to developmental disabilities. Additionally, consumer advisors will have the opportunity to review the agreement before it is finalized.

The legislation also creates a mandated benefit for autism coverage which will apply to any carrier that does not follow the agreement by April 1, 2010. The mandated benefit includes a $36,000 annual maximum and $200,000 lifetime maximum for screening and therapy for autism.

I believe this legislation is a step in the right direction and will bring relief to families struggling with autism. The step we take today continues what we began in March when I appointed an Autism Task Force that will consider other ways we can help families dealing with autism. With the help of Dan Marino, Hall of Fame quarterback for the Miami Dolphins, and co-chair of the task force, they will review the efforts of state and private organizations; encourage partnerships, information and resource sharing; and will develop strategies for early diagnosis and intervention.

I will be announcing this good news to families and autism advocates, starting in Tallahassee and later today in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale. Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp is also carrying the good news to Jacksonville, Pensacola and Fort Myers.

Working together with the Legislature, we are offering Floridians improved access to health care. I am grateful to Representative Ari Porth and Senator Steve Geller for sponsoring this legislation. It is truly a privilege to make a real difference in the insurance coverage available to families and individuals dealing with autism.

May God continue to bless our Florida and our families.