On Thursday, August 13th, 2009, New Jersey Governor John Corzine signed legislation that requires insurers to cover treatments for autism and other developmental disabilities.

According to research, conducted by a federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, New Jersey has the highest rate of autism in the country with one in 94 children being diagnosed with autism.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN TO YOU AS AN EMPLOYER?

Under this bill, insurance companies would be required to provide up to $36,000 per year for medically-necessary behavioral early intervention for all patients with autism, and with other developmental disabilities, who are under 21 years of age. Of 15 states, New Jersey is the first to include other developmental disabilities along with autism in this type of insurance legislation. The bill takes effect February 2010.

ERISA policies would be exempt for this state mandate.

WHAT SHOULD I DO NEXT?
Corporate Synergies will continue to provide updates on this as more information is available. If you have any additional questions regarding the information within this eCommunication, please call Corporate Synergies at 1.866.CSG.1719 or click here to contact us today.

This alert is a legislative update designed to help you administer your employee benefits program and is not legal counsel. Please consult with an attorney for legal advice.