The governor wants lawmakers to reconsider a proposal that requires insurance companies to cover treatments for autism. The requirement was originally included in the governor's proposed budget, but was removed for being a policy issue. Governor Jim Doyle says he wants lawmakers to work together and stand by Wisconsin families in passing the requirement, instead of siding with the insurance industry.
The governor met Monday morning with Mike Crute and Liza Hellenbrand of Middleton, who currently spend $600 a week on treatment for their 3-year-old autistic son Kadin. Kadin has been on a waiting list for nine months to receive a state waiver to help pay for that treatment. The Governor says children shouldn't have to wait that long.
After the measure was removed from the state budget, legislation was introduced in the Senate that would also require insurance companies to pay for autism treatments.
