Politics & Government

Last Chance: Shine a Blue Light on Autism

Today is World Autism Awareness Day. Find out how you can help raise awareness about this growing public health concern.

World Autism Awareness Day is today. To celebrate, light up your home or office in blue to help shine a light on autism.

Join iconic landmarks around the world as they Light It Up Blue to help raise awareness about the developmental disorder that affects the brain's normal development of social and communication skills.

In its third year, Light It Up Blue boasts photographs of the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Sydney Opera House, the CN Tower, the Empire State Building, Niagara Falls and other landmarks all radiant in blue on its website.

Find out what's happening in Huntington Woods-Berkleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Why not add your front porch to the list?

Autism insurance coverage mandate passes House

Last Thursday, the House passed Senate Bills 414, 415 and 981, which require insurance companies to cover evidence-based treatments of autism spectrum disorders and establish a fund to help reimburse part of the cost. The governor’s budget recommends spending $34 million on autism services, with $20 million helping to reimburse private insurers and the $13.5 million providing this care for children who are on Medicaid or MIChild programs, according to a press release from (D-Royal Oak).

Find out what's happening in Huntington Woods-Berkleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“I supported these bills, as well as amendments to cover treatment for all mental illnesses,” Townsend said in the press release. “Unfortunately those amendments were not adopted. But this is a step in the right direction and will help many children with autism become independent and successful.”

The bills will now go to the governor for his consideration. He is expected to sign them into law.


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