To the editor:
April 2 was World Autism Day, an opportunity for all of us to raise awareness and support for the treatment and prevention of autism. Most importantly, it serves as an opportunity to recognize all those who are affected by autism and to increase the dialogue on how we can put an end to this global health crisis.
Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a new report that shows one in 68 children have an autism spectrum disorder, a 30 percent increase from two years ago. This number is rising at an alarming rate and should mobilize all legislators to work together to find a way to reduce this accelerating statistic.
New Jersey was one of the first states to require coverage for autism treatment, however there are many diagnoses on the spectrum that have not been covered. This has caused financial and emotional nightmares for parents, whose lives become consumed by fighting for coverage for their children.
In January, I introduced legislation that would provide families with autistic children with a clearer path toward treatment. My bill, A-272, would clarify the intent of New Jersey’s 2009 law guaranteeing insurance coverage for treating this disorder. We must do better for New Jersey families who have been touched by autism by enforcing the intent of the existing law and covering the entire autism spectrum.
A-272 provides a significant opportunity for us to address an ongoing issue that affects thousands of children throughout New Jersey. World Autism Day was created to shine a bright light on autism. The frightening information released by CDC, along with the countless children who are not receiving the treatment they so desperately require, there is no better time to act on this legislation.
Assemblywoman Donna Simon
Legislative District 16
(Somerset, Hunterdon, Mercer and Middlesex counties)

