Dear Loveland Magazine Readers,
The autism insurance reform movement continues to gain momentum in Ohio! There have been three extremely successful hearings regarding HB 8 before the Healthcare Access and Affordability Committee. Compelling testimony was given and supporters of HB 8 packed the hearing rooms. A fourth hearing is scheduled for this Tuesday, March 31 at 3:00 pm. It is very possible that the committee could vote on the bill during this meeting. Now more than ever, we need your help to ensure HB 8 passes successfully out of this committee.
Background: House Bill 8, sponsored in the Ohio House of Representatives by Representative Ted Celeste (D-24) and Representative Nancy Garland (D-20), would end health care discrimination against children with autism by requiring coverage of diagnosis and treatment
by private insurers for medically necessary treatments.
Here is How You Can Help:
1. Attend the Healthcare Access and Affordability Committee Hearing This Tuesday, March 31st at 3:00 pm in room 114 of the Statehouse. The (Information on parking and directions can be found HERE) Please do everything you can to be there. Invite friends, neighbors and family members to attend with you. Bring a picture of your loved one with autism. We need to pack the room!
2. Contact Your State Representative and Ask Them to Support HB 8. Be polite and persistent. Tell them your story. Remind them that autism is a treatable, medical condition that affects many of their constituents. Insurance should cover treatment!
Find the name and phone number for your state representative HERE.
3. Forward this E-mail to Everyone You Know. Constituents from across the State of Ohio are needed to contact their representatives and to attend hearings. For friends and family who have frequently asked how they can help, this is a fantastic way for them to make a huge difference for those dealing with the daily challenges of living with an autism diagnosis.
4. Register for Advocacy Alerts at Autism Votes. Stay up to date with the latest news related to HB 8 by registering now!
Thank you for helping to improve the quality of life for so many families in Ohio that are affected by autism. For more information, please visit www.AutismVotes.org/Ohio.
Sincerely,
Judith Ursitti
Regional Director of State Advocacy Relations
Autism Speaks
