Autism Insurance in Michigan (AIM)

BREAKING NEWS!

2011-07-13T23:02:00.000-04:00

A hearing has been scheduled for September 8th at 2:30 in the Senate Hearing Room of the Boji Building in Lansing. Now is the time to start finding your Senators, many of whom are out of district and back home during the summer recess. Call them, email them, find them in your local community, write them letters... whatever you need to do to get the message to them that you want them to vote YES for this legislation! Let them know how important these bills are to you and your family and the thousands of families across Michigan who have loved ones with autism.
Find your Senator here: http://www.senate.michigan.gov/fysenator/fysenator.htm

Please also focus on contacting the Senate Health Policy committee members listed below.

HEALTH POLICY:
Senators Marleau (C), 517-373-2417 jimmarleau@senate.michigan.gov

Robertson (VC), (517) 373-1636 SenDRobertson@senate.michigan.gov

Emmons, (517) 373-3760 Sen. Emmon's email form

Hune, (517) 373-2420, SenJHune@senate.michigan.gov

Jones, (517) 373-3447 SenRJones@senate.michigan.gov

Schuitmaker, (517) 373-0793Sen. Schuitmaker's email form

Warren (MVC) 517-373-2406 senrwarren@senate.michigan.gov

Gleason 866-268-2914 senjgleason@senate.michigan.gov

Report back to us on Facebook or by email to let us know what kind of feedback you are getting!

2011-06-26T11:34:00.000-04:00

http://autisminsurancemi.blogspot.com/

June 2011

Vol 3, Issue 1

AIM

Autism Insurance in Michigan

Act Now!

Thank you for your continued support of AIM's autism insurance legislation effort. Your advocacy enabled us to get so close last year to passing this legislation! With the combined support of so many all around the state, we are confident that 2011 is the year that Michigan will pass the insurance legislation! The Senate has re-introduced legislation and plans to take this issue back up in the fall. We need your help now!

How Can You Help?

Michigan legislators are preparing to go on summer recess. Now is the time to find them in district, get to know them, and educate them about the personal impact on your family and on the entire state of Michigan.

1. Contact your legislators!

Find your legislator here: www.votesmart.org

2. Report back to us on what they say!

Post about the conversation you had with your legislator(s) on the AIM Facebook page. If you are not on Facebook, send us an email and we will post your comments. We want to compile a list of every single legislator who has been contacted by the end of the summer, so that we know who we still need to contact in the fall when session resumes.

3. Let us know if any follow-up is needed with your legislator!

AIM is here to support you. If you or your legislator is in need of any facts or even if you want someone to go with you to your meeting, please let us know. We will get you the information you need. We will also send the legislator any kind of information they need, or make additional follow up phone calls or visits.

Contact us!

Email

Many of your friends and family members may have a new email address. Please forward this email on to everyone you know who can help with the advocacy effort and encourage them to sign up for these Action Alert emails, even if they think they have done so in the past.

Autism Insurance Bills Introduced

Click below to see a copies of the bills that were recently introduced in the Senate. House bills have not yet been introduced. Please read these bills, and let us know if you have any questions about their content!

http://legislature.mi.gov/doc.aspx?2011-SB-0414

http://legislature.mi.gov/doc.aspx?2011-SB-0415

UPDATE FROM THE CAPITOL:

2010-12-02T18:39:00.001-05:00

The R- Caucus would not allow our legislation to go to the Senate Floor for a vote. Kathy Angerer gave her farewell speech and with few dry eyes present, announced along with Brian Calley that they are not done yet!!

Today is the FINAL DAY!

2010-12-02T00:27:00.002-05:00

Dear Autism Advocate,

Today IS the FINAL DAY.

No matter what happens today in the Senate, we will end the legislative session this year knowing we have done our very best advocating for our kids and families across Michigan for the past six years since this legislative effort first began.

We have heard from the Senators that your calls are being heard! Hundreds of phone calls and emails per day! THANK YOU SO MUCH for your advocacy!

Today is the final legislative day of the year. We have been told that the Senate Republican caucus is discussing this legislation one more time at 10 am. If there is a majority of Senators interested in letting this legislation come for a vote, it will be discharged from committee directly to the Senate floor for a full vote. Once it gets to the floor, we are confident that we have enough votes to pass. The challenge is still getting it out of caucus in the morning.

HERE'S HOW YOU CAN HELP!

Phone calls can never hurt at this point. The most important calls you make will be before 10 am, but until you hear that a vote has been cast, please continue to keep up the pressure.

We would also love to have a big group of people at the capitol tomorrow. if you are able to make it, please arrive by 10 am. We do not know how long the caucus meeting will last, and are being told that if it passes out of caucus, it will be the first thing to be voted on tomorrow.

Once again, we will be both seated in the gallery above the Senate floor, and outside the Senate session room, pulling undecided Senators off the floor and talking with whoever we can. Your help with this is critical.

Once again, thank you for your perseverance. This has not been an easy process, and we appreciate your sticking with us through the years and not giving up hope. Today is THE FINAL DAY. If you can't join us in Lansing, please join us in spirit, with positive thoughts, prayers, phone calls and emails.

Thank you!

We are still alive... but we need your help!

2010-11-30T22:33:00.002-05:00

Dear Autism Advocate,

Your calls have been heard! Today was a busy day in Lansing, spent educating the Michigan senators and answering their questions about the legislation. Tomorrow is the day we will find out if Sen. Mike Bishop is going to be moving the legislation out of committee and to the floor for a vote. All indicators are looking goof that this is going to happen tomorrow. However, we still need your help! It's not over yet!

HERE'S HOW YOU CAN HELP!

We need constituents in key districts to not only call their senator but to come to Lansing tomorrow! We need people sitting in the galley above the Senate floor as the Senate is voting. The opposition is all here in big numbers, where are the parents? Be here and share in this history-making day.

Especially needed are constituents from Oakland County, Sturgis, Lenawee County area, Algonac, Grand Rapids area VanBuren and Berrien counties, Holland, Calhoun and Jackson Counties, Upper Peninsula, Midland, and Alpena County.

We need people to meet the Senators as they are walking into caucus at 9 am, and we need people to stay through the day as they do a caucus whip count and then the floor vote.

We cannot emphasize enough how important it is that the Senate hear from you and many, many others from your district on Wednesday! Please continue to make calls to any and all of the Senators, if you are unable to come to Lansing tomorrow.

CRITICAL ACTION NEEDED THIS MORNING!!

2010-11-30T00:34:00.003-05:00

Dear Autism Advocate,

We have an AUTISM EMERGENCY! Today is the turning point in the efforts to pass meaningful autism insurance reform legislation in Michigan, but we need your help!

The Michigan House of Representatives passed autism insurance reform legislation last year. Now the Michigan Senate must do the same, but they have only 3 days to get it done! Join Lt. Governor-Elect Calley in saying "We will no longer remain silent" by taking action TODAY!

1. Call your Michigan state senator first thing this morning! (Even if you've called before, please take time to call again.) Let them know that you are a constituent and ask them for an up or down vote for autism insurance reform legislation this week. You can find your Michigan Senator's name and number right HERE. If your Senator has already said they would vote YES on this insurance, please just confirm their stance, and thank them for their support.

If your senator is currently uncommitted or opposed:

Ask your (Republican) senator to please just let the bills come out of caucus this morning and get to a Floor vote in the Senate. Once up for a Floor vote, ask them (either party) to please vote YES for the insurance reform.

2. Come to Lansing TODAY and stand with stakeholders from all around the state. After years of work and passage through the Michigan House of Representatives, it is only right for this issue to to be debated and voted on by the Michigan Senate. Stakeholders will be in the Capitol Rotunda starting at 8:30 sharp. Help us personalize the issue for Michigan Senators by advocating face to face.

3. Forward this e-mail to everyone you know in Michigan and ask them to call their senator as well. We need to jam their phone lines with calls from concerned constituents THIS MORNING, asking for an up or down vote.

We cannot emphasize enough how important it is that the Senate hear from you and many, many others from your district TODAY!
Please take time to call today and ask for their support. Stay tuned for updates by visiting our Facebook page here or My Great Kid's autism page.
Thank you for standing up for Michigan families dealing with the challenges of ASD!

Please visit Autism Insurance in Michigan, Autism Votes, My Great Kid or the AIM Facebook page for updates. Patience is a virtue. Persistence gets the job done.

Let's pull together next Monday and advocate for successful passage of autism insurance reform legislation for the families of Michigan this year!

With gratitude,

The AIM committee members

http://autisminsurancemi.blogspot.com/

AUTISM EMERGENCY!

2010-11-29T03:46:00.000-05:00

EMERGENCY!

Dear Autism Advocate,

HERE'S HOW YOU CAN HELP!

1. Call Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop TODAY and ask him to give autism insurance legislation a vote on the floor this year! Senator Bishop's phone lines need to be flooded with polite, persistent calls asking him to provide principled leadership to pass autism insurance reform legislation now!

Senator Mike Bishop (517) 373-2417

2. Call the list of Senators who are currently uncommitted first thing Monday morning!

Then call the Senators below and ask them to, first, vote to give autism insurance reform a floor vote this session and, second, vote yes to pass autism insurance reform legislation. Be polite, but persistent. Follow up your call by posting on your Senator's Facebook page. If he/she is a supporter, thank them for their support. If he/she is undecided, urge them to support it. Keep it simple, just one line.

Patricia Birkholz 517-373-3447

Cameron Brown 517-373-5932

Nancy Cassis 517-373-1758

Tom George 517-373-0793

Jud Gilbert 517-373-7708

Bill Hardiman 517-373-1801

Mark Jansen 517-373-0797

Ron Jelinek 517-373-6960

Roger Kahn 517-373-1760

Wayne Kuipers 517-373-6920

Tony Stamas 517-373-7946

Liz Brater 517-373-2406

Irma Clark-Coleman 517-373-0990

Michael Prusi 517-373-7840

3. Ask everyone you know to call their senator as well. Please forward this e-mail to friends, family, teachers, neighbors, therapists - anyone and everyone - and ask them to take five minutes on Monday to call. Ask that they follow their calls by commenting on the Senator's Facebook page.

4. Come to the State Capitol in Lansing on Tuesday to let the members of the Senate know how important this is. We will be meeting in the Capitol Rotunda at 8:30 am sharp. Please be there if at all possible!

We cannot emphasize enough how important it is that the Senate hear from you and many, many others from your district TODAY!
Please take time to call today and ask for their support. Stay tuned for updates by visiting our Facebook page here or www.autisminsurancemi.blogspot.com .

Thank you for standing up for Michigan families dealing with the challenges of ASD!

Parents, families and advocates have been working tirelessly, educating legislators about the realities of autism, the effectiveness of treatments, the lack of insurance coverage and the fiscal realities the state will face if they fail to address this issue. Lt. Governor-Elect Brian Calley vowed to "no longer remain silent" releasing this video in support of our efforts. We urge you to watch the video, share it with friends across the state of Michigan, and then take action!
Tune in today, Monday 11/29 at 10:30am on WJR, 760am to hear Lt. Gov.-Elect Brian Calley and Steve Bockmann of My Great Kid speak about the autism insurance legislation on "The Frank Beckmann Show".

Please visit Autism Insurance in Michigan, Autism Votes, My Great Kid or the AIM Facebook page for updates. Patience is a virtue. Persistence gets the job done.

Let's pull together next Monday and advocate for successful passage of autism insurance reform legislation for the families of Michigan this year!

With gratitude,

The AIM committee members

http://autisminsurancemi.blogspot.com/

IT'S THE FINAL COUNTDOWN!

2010-11-26T23:19:00.000-05:00

Dear Autism Advocate,

Next week, the Michigan Senate will be convening to conduct a short lame-duck session. This will be the final opportunity to pass autism insurance reform in Michigan this legislative session. Now, more than ever, we need anyone and everyone to take action.

HELP US FLOOD THE PHONE LINES OF THE MICHIGAN SENATE THIS MONDAY, NOVEMBER 29!

Only a few issues will be taken up during the lame duck session. We need to make sure that autism insurance reform is one of them. On Monday, November 29th, we are asking everyone from Michigan, whether they are personally affected by autism or not, to be part of a statewide grassroots push.

HERE'S HOW YOU CAN HELP!

1. Call the list of Senators who are currently uncommitted Monday morning!

Politely ask them to pass autism insurance reform legislation during the lame duck session. Even if you've spoken with them before, it is imperative that you speak with them every day during the lame duck session, asking for their commitment and action!

Patricia Birkholz 517-373-3447

Mike Bishop 517-373-2417

Cameron Brown 517-373-5932

Nancy Cassis 517-373-1758

Tom George 517-373-0793

Jud Gilbert 517-373-7708

Bill Hardiman 517-373-1801

Mark Jansen 517-373-0797

Ron Jelinek 517-373-6960

Roger Kahn 517-373-1760

Wayne Kuipers 517-373-6920

Tony Stamas 517-373-7946

Liz Brater 517-373-2406

Irma Clark-Coleman 517-373-0990

Michael Prusi 517-373-7840

2. Call Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop and ask him to allow autism insurance reform legislation to be voted on by the Michigan senate THIS SESSION:

Senator Mike Bishop (517) 373-2417

3. If possible, come to Lansing on TUESDAY and advocate in person. We need a polite, persistent presence at the State Capitol. Stakeholders are meeting Tuesday morning in the capitol rotunda at 8:30 am sharp. If you are coming from a distance and would like to spend the night in Lansing, contact Ann at traveltrio@verizon.net for travel/hotel information. If you are able to come, we would love to know ahead of time so we can make sure to have a good representation in key districts. Please take a moment to fill out this form: Count on Me! AIM t-shirts will be available in Lansing.

4. Media Events: Please help spread the word!
Newspaper- Let us know about any letters to the editor that makes it to your local paper(s)! We are hoping that this weekend's papers are filled with letters across the state. Thank you to everyone who submitted letters. We like to post all stories on the AIM Facebook page.

Radio- Tune into the following shows over the next few days:

Saturday, 11/26 at 2:30pm on WJR, 950am: Steve Bockmann, of My Great Kid will be interviewed on the "Marie Osborn show"
Sunday, 11/27 at 9:00am on WDTW,1310am: House Majority Leader and autism reform champion, Kathy Angerer, will be interviewed on the "My Great Kid" radio show.
Monday, 11/28 at 10:30am on WJR, 760am: Lt. Gov.-Elect Brian Calley and Steve Bockmann will be interviewed on "The Frank Beckmann Show".

YouTube- Please watch and spread this compelling video of Lt. Governor-Elect Brian Calley's personal story of autism and why he supported the insurance legislation even before his daughter was diagnosed

5. Continue to leave voicemail messages all weekend, too! The most important day is Monday, when our calls will be answered by "live" people, but leaving messages and filling up their voicemail boxes over the weekend will create quite an impact as well.

6. Forward this e-mail far and wide. The more Michigan voters we have advocating for the passage of this bill, the greater our odds of success become. Please spread the word!

Please visit Autism Insurance in Michigan, Autism Votes, My Great Kid or the AIM Facebook page for updates. Patience is a virtue. Persistence gets the job done.

Let's pull together next Monday and advocate for successful passage of autism insurance reform legislation for the families of Michigan this year!

With gratitude,

The AIM committee members

http://autisminsurancemi.blogspot.com/

It's the FINAL COUNTDOWN!

2010-11-23T07:52:00.004-05:00

There are only THREE more legislative days this session for the Senate to pass the autism reform legislation. THREE days.

We have been fighting for this insurance reform for almost six years now, and it all comes down to this final countdown. Our friends at My Great Kid interviewed House Majority Leader Kathy Angerer on their radio show recently. Click here to listen to a brief segment of the show which will be aired in its entirety this Sunday morning at 9 am on 1310am. Hear why it is so important that these bills get passed NOW and why it is critical that we do not let them die this session.

HERE'S HOW YOU CAN HELP

1. Contact your Michigan senator today and ask them to pass meaningful autism insurance reform this session. Ask them if we can count on them voting YES for the autism insurance legislation when it comes up for a vote next week. If your Republican Senator opposes the legislation or is on the fence, ask your senator if he/she will vote YES to allow the legislation to come for a vote on the floor. You can find out who your Michigan State Senator is and their phone number HERE. Be polite, but persistent. Don't be concerned if your senator is not in their office. Most of the Senators will be gone this week on vacation, but their staff will still be there answering the phone and counting calls. Talk with their staff and let them know how critical it is that this legislation pass this year. Ask them if they know where the Senator stands.

If you want to have even MORE of an impact, please take a moment and call Senators below who are still undecided or have told us they will not vote in favor of it.

Jason Allen 517-373-2413 senjallen@senate.michigan.gov

Patricia Birkholz 517-373-3447 senpbirkholz@senate.michigan.gov

Mike Bishop 517-373-2417 senmbishop@senate.michigan.gov

Cameron Brown 517-373-5932 sencbrown@senate.michigan.gov

Nancy Cassis 517-373-1758 senncassis@senate.michigan.gov

Alan Cropsey 517-373-3760 senacropsey@senate.michigan.gov

Valde Garcia 517-373-2420 senvgarcia@senate.michigan.gov

Tom George 517-373-0793 sentgeorge@senate.michigan.gov

Jud Gilbert 517-373-7708 senjgilbert@senate.michigan.gov

Bill Hardiman 517-373-1801 senbhardiman@senate.michigan.gov

Mark Jansen 517-373-0797 SenMJansen@senate.michigan.gov

Ron Jelinek 517-373-6960 senrjelinek@senate.michigan.gov

Roger Kahn 517-373-1760 SenRKahn@senate.michigan.gov

Wayne Kuipers 517-373-6920 senwkuipers@senate.michigan.gov

Michelle McManus 517-373-1725 senmmcmanus@senate.michigan.gov

Alan Sanborn 517-373-7670 senasanborn@senate.michigan.gov

Tony Stamas 517-373-7946 ofctstamas@senate.michigan.gov

Liz Brater 517-373-2406 senlbrater@senate.michigan.gov
Irma Clark-Coleman (517) 373-0990 seniclark-coleman@senate.michigan.gov

Michael Prusi (517) 373-7840 senmprusi@senate.michigan.gov

Mickey Switalski (517) 373-7315 senmswitalski@senate.michigan.gov

2. Follow up your phone call with a quick, personalized e-mail. Here is a link to a FACT PAGE about the legislation. Please use these facts to support your own personal story. Again, to have even a more effective impact, please send emails to the Senators in the regions above who are on the fence or opposed.

3. Join AIM and other parents from around the state next week in Lansing! We plan to be there early in the morning on 11/30 (by 8:45am) as the Republican caucus decides whether or not to hold a vote. If they do decide to hold a vote, it could be that same morning, the following day on Dec. 1st, or the last day of the session, Dec. 2nd. We will be there to see that the job gets done. If the caucus decides to NOT hold a vote on 11/30, we will be there talking to Senators, pulling them off the floor, and making our presence known. Please join us in this very critical advocacy action.
If you are coming from out of town, and would like to spend the night, please feel free to email Ann for more details and suggested places to stay in town. Some of us are planning on staying overnight on the 30th for sure.
We would like to see as many Senate districts from around the state represented on 11/30 in Lansing. If you plan to come, please let us know who you are and where you are coming from, in case we need you to speak to your Senator that day. Some legislators only want to talk to their own constituents. Please take a moment and fill out this form if you plan on coming to Lansing on the 30th, 1st or 2nd (as needed) so we have a good idea of which districts are being represented. If you don't get a chance to fill out the form, please feel free to come anyways, but look for an AIM committee member to sign in with and receive a name tag.
AIM t-shirts will be available to wear on 11/30 (as sizes are available). If you already have an AIM t-shirt, please wear it.

4. Please forward this e-mail to everyone you know who lives in Michigan, asking them to take action as well. They do not have to be personally affected by autism. There is strength in numbers. The stronger our voice, the more likely our success becomes.

Things could change by the minute and we will be sending out regular communications as we learn more over the coming days. Please stand ready to take action. We are in the closing miles of the marathon, heading up heartbreak hill. Now more than ever, we must put one foot in front of the other.

We will be asking you to take action frequently over the next week. After almost six years, it has come down to the final few days. Please do not grow weary in the effort now! We have a great opportunity to pass meaningful autism insurance reform legislation this year. Thanks for doing all you can to help us cross the finish line.

5. Click here for some motivational music as you finish reading this email...

You can stay up to date by visiting the AIM webpage or the AIM Facebook page on a regular basis.

Thank you for your commitment and advocacy,

AIM

ACTION ALERT!

2010-11-18T05:46:00.000-05:00

ACTION ALERT!

THANK YOU for the incredible groundswell of support you have shown over the past couple of weeks. The phone lines of the members of the Michigan senate have been lighting up and the accompanying message has been strong and clear: It's time for the Michigan senate to pass meaningful autism insurance reform.

As you already know, the Michigan Legislature will meet just a handful of times before the end of the year. The good news is that, due in large part to your efforts, all indications are that we will be on the agenda during the last three days of session for this year. If it is not, we will have to start all over in 2011. Michigan families dealing with the challenges of autism spectrum disorder simply cannot afford to wait. We must keep the momentum going.

HERE'S HOW YOU CAN HELP!

Here is How YOU Can Help:

Contact your Michigan senator today and ask them to pass meaningful autism insurance reform this session. Ask them if we can count on them voting YES for the autism insurance legislation. If you get any kind of definitive answer, whether it is Yes, No, or Undecided from the staff or the Senator, please let us know, as we will be keeping an updated list of Yes votes. There are currently 37 Senators. All we need are 19 YES votes.

1. First and foremost, pick up the phone and call your Michigan State Senator.

You can find out who your Michigan State Senator is and their phone number HERE. Be polite, but persistent. Don't be concerned if your senator is not in their office. Most of the Senators will be gone for the next two weeks on vacation, but their staff will still be there answering the phone and counting calls. Talk with their staff and let them know how critical it is that this legislation pass this year. Ask them if they know where the Senator stands.

If you want to have even MORE of an impact, please take a moment and call Senators who represent the areas listed below. We are hearing feedback from the Senators who support the legislation that your calls are being effective! But there are Senators still on the fence, who have not been receiving as many calls. If you or anyone you know, lives in one of these areas listed below, please call the Senator who represents that region! It is vital that the Senators in these regions, specifically, hear from the people over the next two weeks.

Northwestern Oakland County (Commerce Twp, Highland Twp, Holly Twp, Lyon Twp, Milford Twp, Northville, Novi, South Lyon, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield Twp, White Lake Twp and Wixom)
Coloma, St. Joseph, Watervliet, Dowagiac, South Haven, Paw Paw
Saginaw and Gratiot counties
Saugatauck, Charlotte, Olivet
St. Joseph, Branch, Hillsdale and Lenawee
The Upper Peninsula and Mackinac Island
Macomb County
Algonac, Lapeer, St. Clair Counties
Detroit, Dearborn, River Rouge
Traverse City
Kent County
Holland
Lake Leelenau
Midland, Alpena, Oscoda
Northern Oakland County (Addison Twp, Auburn Hills, Independence Twp, Keego Harbor, Lake Angelus, Oakland Twp, Orion Twp, Oxford Twp, Pontiac, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Sylvan Lake and Clarkston)
Ann Arbor

2. Follow up your phone call with a quick, personalized e-mail. Here is a link to a FACT PAGE about the legislation. Please use these facts to support your own personal story. Again, to have even a more effective impact, please send emails to the Senators in the regions above. Again, all emails are also listed here,

3. Please forward this e-mail to everyone you know who lives in Michigan, asking them to take action as well. They do not have to be personally affected by autism. There is strength in numbers. The stronger our voice, the more likely our success becomes.

We will be asking you to take action frequently over the next few weeks. After five years, it has come down to the final few days. Please do not grow weary in the effort now! We have a great opportunity to pass meaningful autism insurance reform legislation this year. Thanks for doing all you can to help us cross the finish line.

For the sake of Michigan families and the fiscal well-being of the state, it is time for health insurance to cover autism treatment in Michigan. It's the right thing to do and now is the right time to do it. Let's make it happen this year!

You can stay up to date by visiting the AIM webpage or the AIM Facebook page on a regular basis.

Thank you for your commitment and advocacy,

AIM

Special Media Announcement!

Watch FOX 2 news in the morning, this Friday, the 19th at 8 am. Lieutenant Governor-Elect Brian Calley will be on the show that morning, discussing the critical need to PASS this legislation NOW.

THIS IS IT!!!

2010-11-08T00:55:00.004-05:00

This may be the most important message we have ever sent.

We have reached a critical juncture in our effort to pass meaningful autism insurance reform this legislative session. With the elections behind us, we now have an extremely limited window of opportunity to make sure that autism insurance reform legislation is placed on the agenda. There may be five or less session days left for this insurance to get passed! The Senate will be deciding this Tuesday which issues will be taken up during the remainder of this legislative session. Legislators have only a handful of session days remaining and will take up a limited amount of business.

With successful passage in the Michigan House of Representatives last year, it is important to note that if passage does not occur in the Senate before the end of this session, we will have to start from scratch in 2011. It took us years to get to this point!

The families of Michigan dealing with the challenges of autism spectrum disorder simply cannot afford to wait. Now more than ever, the voices of friends and family from all across the state must speak up.

Here is How YOU Can Help:

Contact your Michigan senator today and ask them to pass meaningful autism insurance reform this session.

1. First and foremost, pick up the phone and call your Michigan State Senator. Be polite, but persistent. Don't be concerned if your senator is not in their office. Talk with their staff and let them know how critical it is that this legislation pass this year. You can find out who your Michigan State Senator is and their phone number HERE. If you want to have even MORE of an impact, please take a moment and call ALL of the Republican Senators. You can find a list of their names and links to their contact info HERE.

2. Follow up your phone call with a quick, personalized e-mail. Here is a link to a FACT PAGE about the legislation. Please use these facts to support your own personal story.

Things could change by the minute and we will be sending out regular communications as we learn more over the coming days. Please stand ready to take action. You can also stay up to date by visiting the AIM webpage or the AIM Facebook page on a regular basis.

For the sake of Michigan families and the fiscal well-being of the state, it is time for health insurance to cover autism treatment in Michigan. It’s the right thing to do and now is the right time to do it. Let's make it happen this year!

Thank you for your commitment and advocacy,

AIM

Action Alert!

2010-10-18T11:01:00.001-04:00

Thank you for calling Senate Majority Leader Bishop last week! We heard from many of you who indicated that they spoke with his office and they were being deluged with calls regarding the movement of autism insurance reform legislation before the end of the year.

With the legislative clock ticking down, now more than ever we need Senator Bishop and the members of the Michigan Senate to provide principled leadership and move autism insurance legislation forward this year!

Here is how you can help:

Please spend two minutes making two phone calls:

1. First, call Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop AGAIN and ask him to move autism insurance reform legislation forward now. Please be polite when you call. Ask for his principled leadership on this issue. Let him know that autism insurance coverage means a great deal to your family and will also be the fiscally responsible thing to do for the state of Michigan.
Senate Majority Leader Michael D. Bishop - (517) 373-2417
If you happen to be sent to voice mail, please leave a message.

2. Then, call YOUR Michigan Senator and ask for their support in ensuring movement of autism insurance reform legislation this session. (You can find out who your Michigan State Senator is and their phone number here.) If you would like to see how your Senator responded to the survey we sent out a few weeks ago, or to see if your Senator even responded at all, please check for their name on the Candidate Guide. Feel free to ask your Senator or their staff the questions posed in the survey if they have not yet responded.

3. Please forward this e-mail to at least ten of your friends, asking them to make these two critical calls as well.

Thank you for your continued advocacy and focus. Please stay up to date by visiting

http://autisminsurancemi.blogspot.com/
regularly. Passage of meaningful autism insurance reform legislation is the right thing to do and now is the right time to do it in the State of Michigan.

Let’s make it happen!

Call Mike Bishop Today!!

2010-10-10T22:08:00.000-04:00

Dear Michigan Autism Advocate,

The effort to pass autism insurance reform legislation this year has reached a critical juncture.

As you are already aware, autism insurance reform legislation passed the Michigan House of Representatives last year. Stakeholders have been working diligently for several months to move the legislation through the Michigan senate. Many of you have attended the public workgroup hearings held throughout the state. Compelling testimony has been provided, indicating the incredible burden families are placed under attempting to provide life-changing autism treatment for their loved ones. In addition, a strong fiscal argument has been provided, proving that the state of Michigans economic health is dependent on this much-needed reform. As part of Michigan's much needed economic reform, this could save $14 billion of lifetime costs.

With the legislative clock ticking down, now more than ever we need senate leadership to provide principled leadership and move autism insurance legislation forward this year. We simply cannot afford to wait.

Here's How You Can Help:

1. Call Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop and ask him to move autism insurance reform legislation forward now. Please be polite when you call. Ask for his principled leadership on this issue. Let him know that autism insurance coverage means a great deal to your family and will also be the fiscally responsible thing to do for the state of Michigan.

Senate Majority Leader Michael D. Bishop (517) 373-2417

If you happen to be sent to voice mail, please leave a message.

2. Ask at least ten of your friends to call Senator Bishop as well. Please note that they do not have to be personally affected by autism to make this call. We need to flood Senator Bishops phone with polite calls from concerned citizens, asking for his principled leadership on autism insurance reform. There is strength in numbers. The more polite calls Senator Bishop receives from concerned citizens, the more likely it becomes he will move autism insurance reform legislation forward this session.

3. Stay up to date by visiting this page often in the next few weeks. Register for advocacy alerts while you are here. You can also visit us on Facebook for all the current happenings as things will be changing quickly! We cannot emphasize enough how important it is that you contact Senator Bishop's office today. Please take the time to call and ask everyone you know to do the same. With 23 states now having enacted similar legislation, its time for health insurance to cover autism treatment for the families of Michigan!

Now is the Time!

2010-09-30T23:25:00.001-04:00

Do you know where your candidates stand?

AIM recently sent out a survey to each candidate running for Governor, Senate or House of Representatives this fall. The survey asked 5 specific questions regarding their stance on autism insurance reform legislation. Many candidates responded to the survey and we have tabulated their results here. If there is no response listed, it is because they did not return the survey. If you want to know where your candidates stand, and you have the opportunity to ask, please use the survey questions and ask them! Please take a moment and look up the candidates who are running for election in your district and consider their answers in your voting decision. In order to find your candidates, you will need to know your District number. You can easily find this out by entering your zip code into this website. If you have any questions about this process, please do not hesitate to call Ann at 734-854-3216.

The next two months are crucial!

Did you know that out of the 38 current Senate seats in Michigan, at a maximum, only 8 Senators are going to be returning to office? The other 30 seats will be filled with brand new Senators. With the autism insurance bills currently pending in the Senate, NOW IS THE TIME to get these bills passed, before it carries over to next session, and we begin the process over from square one. We have been educating the current legislators for years. We don’t have time to waste, and neither do our children. NOW IS THE TIME TO PASS THIS LEGISLATION! Please be watching in the upcoming weeks any action that is needed.

Other News

Senator Richardville will be holding his final Senate Workgroup session in Lansing this Tuesday, Oct. 5^th at 1:00 pm in the Farnum Building committee room.

NOW IS THE TIME!

Our children have waited long enough without access to treatment that can change their lives. How many more years, and how many more children, need to go without; before legislation is enacted that will give these families hope? Our children are worth fighting for. We cannot let this session end without a vote on the legislation that has been pending for years. NOW IS THE TIME!

Next Senate Workgroup Announced!

2010-09-24T00:57:00.000-04:00

Tuesday, October 5th at 1:00 in the Farnum Building in Lansing.
Senator Richardville will host the 4th workgroup session for discussion around autism insurance legislation.
More details to come!

Candidate Surveys 2010

2010-08-30T22:46:00.002-04:00

Please click here to see the candidate surveys that have been distributed to those running for executive and legislative political offices this fall. Once the surveys have been returned, the results will be made into a guide that will be circulated as widely as possible. This guide will let voters know where each candidate stands on autism insurance legislation. If a candidate does not return the survey, that will also be noted in the guide.

Third Senate Workgroup Scheduled

2010-07-21T10:11:00.004-04:00

The third Senate workgroup session on Thursday, July 22nd from 12-2 pm. The workgroup will be held at the Hope Network's Education Center in Grand Rapids. A link to a map can be found at at http://www.mapquest.com/mq/5-u*NICKC7. Please wear your AIM shirts to show your support. Everyone is welcome, so please plan to be there!!

Speakers for this event are:
Phil Weaver, President and CEO of Hope Network
Marlowe Franklin, President Autism Resource Network and Parent
Emily Olson, Parent
Conny Raaymakers, Behavior Analyst, Hope Network
Steven L. Pastyrnak, Ph.D., Division Chief of Psychology Services, Helen DeVos Children's Hospital
James Todd, Ph.D., Professor of psychology, Eastern Michigan University
Rosie Ells, Occupational Therapist, Easter Seals of Michigan

Action Needed!

2010-06-17T21:03:00.006-04:00

Please be there!
We need you to attend the second Senate workgroup session on Monday, June 21st from 12-2 pm. The workgroup will be held at the Detroit Medical Center's Children's Hospital Auditorium. A link to a map and parking instructions can be found here. Parking is available in the garage for $2.50 or you can choose to valet park (also, for a fee).

The auditorium seats 250 people- we need it packed with standing room only! Please wear your AIM shirts to show your support. If you do not have one, they can be purchased by going to Autism-Ask or a limited quantity will be available for only $5 on Monday. Everyone is welcome, so please plan to be there!!

Speakers for this event are:

Anthony Earley, Chairman and CEO of DTE Energy

Stephen D'Arcy, Global Automotive Leader at PricewaterhouseCoopers L.LP and Chairman of the Board for Detroit Medical Center

David Meador, Executive V.P. and CFO of DTE Energy

Robert Ficano, County Executive for Wayne County

Krista Kennedy, Director of Behavioral Services for the Autism Center at Children's Hospital of Michigan

Ruth Anan, Ph.D., Director of the Early Childhood Program at Beaumont Hospital

Amy Matthews, Ph.D., Project Director for the START Program at Grand Valley State University

Peter Bell, Executive V.P. of Programs and Services for Autism Speaks

Jim and Lisa Price, Co-Founders of Jack's Place for Autism

Letters to the Editor

Please write a Letter to the Editor of your local newspaper this week, ASAP! We are trying to get as much coverage of this issue as we can! Listed below are some key themes and points, as suggested by Dave Meador, who is going to be one of the speakers on Monday. Feel free to use these key talking points in your letter or create your own, with the theme being that it is time for the Senate leadership to take action NOW!

Key points:

Autism Insurance Reform in Michigan equals at least $14 billion more in savings for Michigan, a state in desperate need of reform. This is a conservative estimate.

Michigan's 15,000 children with autism do not have access to the medically proven therapies that can move at least half of them to normal function. While the cause and cure of autism are not known, these proven therapies are not covered by Michigan’s insurance companies. Of the savings, $200,000 per child would go to the schools over their school life.

That is why 22 states have rapidly passed this legislation and another 21 are on their way. Autism reform legislation equals at least $14 billion in savings to Michigan, $3 billion of that to the schools. It allows children a chance at a productive life and new jobs for health care professionals. Reform doesn't get much better.

We encourage the Michigan Senate to continue to provide leadership and move on this legislation before the summer recess.

Goal:
Most Michigan Insurance Policies exclude coverage for medically proven therapies for children with autism. We are seeking to become the 23th State to pass insurance reform that would provide therapies including, but not limited to Therapeutic evaluations and interventions, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Comprehensive Behavioral Treatment for Young Children - Intensive early intervention, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Psychological Services, Psychiatric Services

The case for change is has been made and the time for action is NOW.

Autism Coverage Petition

2010-06-14T22:53:00.006-04:00

Please print out and sign a copy of this petition and return it to Representative Kathy Angerer's office at the address on the bottom. Please pass this link on to all of your friends, family members, therapists, teachers, and anyone else in the community who believes that this needs to be done now! Thank you for taking just a few moments of your time to make a difference.

Autism Coverage Petition

SAVE THE DATE!

2010-06-05T17:20:00.001-04:00

We need you! Please mark your calendars to be at the second Senate workgroup session on June 21st from 12-2 pm. The workgroup will be held at the Detroit Medical Center's Children's Hospital Auditorium. A link to a map and parking instructions can be found here.

The auditorium seats 250 people- we need it packed with standing room only! We know the kids will be out of school then, so if you feel your child(ren) are able to make it through the 2-3 hour session, feel free to bring them along too!

Tune in to the MyGreatKid radio show tomorrow morning, Sunday, June 6th at 8 am! Steve and Staci Bockman of MyGreatKid will be speaking with Lorri Unumb, a Senior Policy Advisor from Autism Speaks, on her mission to make Autism Insurance legislation a reality in all 50 states. Not only will she explain why she feels this legislation is important but she'll also explain the impact it will have on all of us .... including those that aren't impacted by Autism in their own families.Also being interviewed is attorney Gerard Mantese about his two recent victories over Blue Cross Blue Shield. Tune in and hear a great interview about legislation and litigation and how both of these issues impact the families in Michigan.

Click here for more info on how to tune in tomorrow morning. If you miss it, the interview will also be available online later by podcast.

There are still AIM t-shirts available, for the special low cost of $5. Most sizes remaining are Adult M, L or XL but there are a few other sizes available as well. You can order them now from the Autism-ASK website by clicking here or you can call 248-6181-ASK(275) if you would like to arrange a pick up or an order too big to be mailed. Please wear your shirt to the DMC workgroup session! There is still plenty of time to order yours today!

The Second Senate Workgroup Session

2010-05-28T11:10:00.000-04:00

The next Senate Workgroup Session has been rescheduled from June 4th to June 21st. It will be held at the DMC- Children's Hospital Auditorum from 12 pm-2 pm. A list of speakers has not been confirmed yet. Please try to attend to show your support and the solidarity of the autism community! Directions and parking instructions for DMC can be found here.

2010-05-26T19:15:00.000-04:00

The first Senate workgroup went very well this past Monday! There was a good turnout and the speakers were extremely informative. Thank you to Senator Richardville and Senator Brater for conducting the first of these workgroup sessions and taking a real interest in the effects of autism on our families in Michigan.

Listed below are some stories that appeared in the press over the past few days.

Please note, the second workgroup session that was originally scheduled to meet at the DMC on June 4th, has been rescheduled for June 21st. Specific times and details will be coming soon.

Article in the Eastern Echo paper
Article from the Ann Arbor News
WWJ Newsradio coverage
Listen to a brief radio clip from EMU news radio
Story from the Monroe News

Autism Workgroup Session this Monday, May 24th!

2010-05-20T00:46:00.000-04:00

We need you!

Please join us Monday, May 24th, from 2:30 - 4:30pm at the Autism Collaborative Center in Ypsilanti for the first in series of bi-partisan legislative task force meetings on autism insurance reform. The Center is located on the campus of Eastern Michigan University, 1055 Cornell Road, Fletcher School Building, Ypsilanti 48197 (click on the link for a map).

It is important that we show our legislators how vitally important this issue is to Michigan families! So, please show your support and attend the session on Monday!

As a show of our solidarity, please wear your AIM t-shirts. For those who do not already have an AIM shirt, they will be available for only $5 as you enter the Center.

There is an impressive list of speakers who will be testifying about the need for autism insurance reform. That list includes Lorri Unumb, Senior Policy Advisor for Autism Speaks; Catherine Lord, Ph.D., Director of the University of Michigan Autism & Communication Disorders Centers; Pamela Lemerand, Ph.D, Project Director for EMU's Autism Collaborative Center; Eileen Weiser, former State Board of Education member and Civic Leader, and Brooke Ingersoll, Ph. D, Michigan State University Autism Laboratory.

The second in the series of task force meetings has been set for Friday, June 4, from 12:00 - 2:00pm at the Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit Medical Center. More information and details will follow as soon they are finalized.

We hope we will see you on Monday, May 24, for the first in this critical series of task force meetings. Please remember to wear your AIM t-shirts to show that we are speaking with unified voices! Thanks for your continuing advocacy and support on this extremely important issue!!

Press Conference in Lansing a Success!

2010-04-28T05:53:00.000-04:00

AIM's Autism Awareness Day at the Capitol was a great success. Senator Richardville announced that he will be holding hearings around the state starting in May to further educate the Senate about the issues affecting approximately 15,000 Michigan children diagnosed with autism and their families. The first hearing will be held on Monday, May 24th, from 2:30-4:30 pm at Eastern Michigan University's Autism Collaborative Center. The Detroit News article can be linked to here

Bipartisan legislative task force to take public comment on autism insurance

2010-04-25T13:21:00.000-04:00

Bipartisan legislative task force

to take public comment on autism insurance

Sen. Richardville announces four hearings this spring

during Michigan Autism Awareness Day at the Capitol

Join us Tuesday, April 27^th, from 12-1pm at the Capitol Rotunda in Lansing. Please show your support! We need our legislators to know that this is an important issue for Michigan families! This is an indoor event, so weather won’t be a factor. If you plan on attending, please email your RSVP to Lisa.Marie.Espinoza@gmail.com. If you are a representative of any autism agency or any supporting organization, please also let Lisa know this when you RSVP, as we would like to mention your attendance to the press to show the coalition of support that this issue has across our state.

Autism Insurance in Michigan (AIM) will honor legislative leaders during a news conference where Sen. Richardville will announce a bipartisan task force that will hear public comment on autism insurance this spring. Some of the Michigan children, parents and physicians who deal with this neurobiological condition every day and are fighting for passage of legislation to reform Michigan insurance law will also speak briefly. The House and Senate will present resolutions acknowledging April as Autism Awareness Month in Michigan and a representative of Gov. Jennifer Granholm will present a proclamation acknowledging Autism Awareness Month.

Thank you for your continued support and advocacy, especially now when we need it most!

You're Invited to Autism Awareness Day the Capitol - April 27th!

2010-04-17T16:57:00.000-04:00

Governor Granholm has declared April Autism Awareness month in Michigan! Awareness as at epidemic proportions and now it’s time to use that momentum to get Autism insurance legislation passed in Michigan! AIM is doing its part to raise awareness by providing educational displays at the Capitol and it will recognize and show appreciation for those legislators who have been advocating for autism insurance reform. Please join us for an AIM sponsored Autism Awareness Day at the Capitol building in Lansing on Tuesday, April 27th, from 12-1:00pm.

We have reserved the Rotunda in the Capitol for this hour, and will present awards of recognition to our various legislative champions. Key legislators, a representative from Governor Granholm’s office, Dr. John Wycoff of the Wycoff Wellness Center and Dr. Koenigsnecht, superintendent of the Montcalm ISD, will be speaking. We are also inviting a family and a child who was affected by autism to come and speak as part of the education campaign we are undertaking to help promote awareness of the issues affecting the families in Michigan whose lives have been impacted by autism. We expect this event to be both informative and educational, and a good way to create awareness of autism issues in Michigan. We also expect there to be announcements relative to further action on the autism insurance reform initiative for Michigan. We are inviting the press to be there as well to help publicize this important issue.

Please plan to attend and help us show our heartfelt appreciation for our legislative supporters. A healthy turn out by families affected by autism and those who support them is a crucial sign to our legislators that the effort to assure autism insurance legislation in Michigan is still as important and necessary as ever. Please come to this event! We ask that you please RSVP to Lisa Espinoza at lisa.marie.espinoza@gmail.com by April 23rd.

The week leading up to this event, we will also be having an autism awareness exhibit in the lower level of the Capitol building. This will provide an opportunity for legislators to learn more about the facts of autism and how autism is affecting their constituents in Michigan.

Thank you for your continued support and advocacy!

Autism Awareness Day at the Capitol- April 27th

2010-04-08T14:44:00.000-04:00

In honor of April being Autism Awareness Month, and to show appreciation for the legislators who have been advocating for autism insurance reform, AIM will be coordinating an Autism Awareness Day at the Capitol building in Lansing on Tuesday, April 27th, from 12-1:00pm. We are reserving the Rotunda in the Capitol for this hour, and will present awards of recognition to our various legislative champions. Governor Granholm has officially decreed April as Autism Awareness Month in the State of Michigan! We are hoping she will be able to join us. We are also inviting some families to come and speak as part of the education campaign we are undertaking to help promote awareness of the issues affecting the families in Michigan affected by autism. The press has been invited as well, and there will be targeted media stories put out around the state on this day.
Unfortunately, space is limited in the Capitol building and seats will be at a minimum. If you would like to be present for this event, we ask that you please RSVP to Lisa Espinoza at lisa.marie.espinoza@gmail.com by April 20th and then check in when you arrive at the Capitol building. RSVPs may be cut off sooner than April 20th depending on the number of responses we receive.
The week leading up to this event, we will also be having an autism awareness exhibit in the lower level of the Capitol building. This will provide an opportunity for legislators to learn more about the facts of autism and how autism is affecting their constituents in Michigan.
Thanks for your continued support and advocacy!

Why Michigan Still Needs Autism Insurance Legislation

2010-03-29T10:33:00.000-04:00

With the recent passage of the Health Care Education and Affordability Reconciliation Act of 2010 – along with the reconciliation bill – many people are wondering what this means for families dealing with autism. You may also be wondering if the pending Michigan autism insurance legislation is still necessary? The answer is yes.

While the passage of healthcare reform could result in improved access to care for individuals with autism and their families, the bill still falls short of eliminating the discrimination of coverage for medically necessary autism treatments. Behavioral health treatment is included as part of the essential health benefits package required in certain health plans, though not most health plans. The reconciliation bill will require the following health plans to offer at least the essential benefits package: (1) plans offered by state-based exchanges, through which individuals and small businesses can purchase coverage; and (2) plans offered in the individual and small group markets outside the exchange. Therefore, while some families affected by autism will be able to receive health insurance coverage for behavioral health treatments, the majority of families will remain without this crucial coverage.

Your Contacts are Needed!

2010-01-08T16:23:00.000-05:00

The Senate is back in session for the New Year. We need to show the Senate that our proposed legislation is supported across the state by a large number of individuals, organizations, and coalitions. We have been targeting the individuals up until this point, by asking you to make personal contacts with your legislators, but now we need to appeal to the Senate's economic concerns. We want to show the long term cost-savings benefit to passing this legislation. We need to show them that it makes good business sense to support these bills, and it's not JUST the right thing to do for all the families in Michigan affected by autism, but for the state itself, as its economic future will be greatly impacted by the long-term costs to society if something doesn't change soon.

Specifically, we are asking you to reach out to any organization you belong to, any board you may sit on, any chamber of commerce or nonprofit group, business organization or coalition, and ask them if they will support this effort. We are looking specifically for non-autism related groups. We already have the support of the autism community; now we are reaching out to the business community and those organizations that support children and family issues. We are not asking for the organization to do anything right now. We just want to know if they are in support of the concept of not allowing insurance companies to deny autism coverage. At some point in the near future, we may go back and ask these organizations for a statement on their letterhead, to contact the senate, or for a board-approved resolution, but, at this time, we would just like to know if their organization can support the idea behind this legislation. Also, we would like to know if they are willing to allow the name of their organization to be listed in writing to show the statewide support we have from the various organizations in Michigan.

If you have such an organization willing to support our effort, please take a moment and send an email to Stephanie Harlan at sharlan@comcast.net. Please include the name of the organization and any contact information for the person with whom you spoke. Once we have a list of supporting organizations, we will also post it on this website for reference and update it frequently. Listed below is a partial list of organizations already committing their support. If you have any questions or would like any supporting documentation to send to these organizations, please contact Stephanie Harlan or Ann Breznai at traveltrio@verizon.net.

We would like to have this list compiled in the next couple of weeks, so please send us your contacts as soon as possible! Thank you so much. We could not do this without the effort of each and every one of you!

Below is a partial list of organizations and businesses supporting autism insurance legislation as of 4/23/2010:

ACT Network

Ann Arbor Families for Autistic Children's Education and Support

Autism Advisory Group
Autism Alliance of Michigan
Autism ASK

Autism Insurance in Michigan (AIM)

Autism Resource Network

Autism Society of America

Autism Society of America - Oakland County Chapter

Autism Society of Washtenaw County

Autism Society of WestShore

Autism Speaks
Autism Alliance of Michigan

Beaumont Hospitals

Behavior Analysts Association of Michigan

Detroit Medical Center
DTE Energy Company

Early InterventionCenter

Easter Seals

Elder Disability Rights Association Section of the State Bar of Michigan

Family Chiropractic Clinic

First Capital Directories

Forestview Lanes

Fravel Financial Services

GFWC Madison Heights Intermediate Womens Club

Glenn Buege Chevrolet

HOPE Network
Image One Corporation
Jack's Place

Kaufman Children's Center

Michael James Associates

Michigan Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals

Michigan Association of IntermediateSchool Administrators

Michigan Association of School Administrators

Michigan Association of School Boards

Michigan Association of School Psychologists

Michigan Association of School Social Workers

Michigan Council for Maternal and Child Health

Michigan Nurses Association

Michigan Pharmacists Association

Michigan PTA

Michigan Secondary School Principals Association

Michigan Speech Language Hearing Association

Middle Cities Education Association

Monroe IntermediateSchool District

National Alliance on Mental Illness - Michigan Chapter (member of Partners for Parity)

National Council of Jewish Women, Greater Detroit Section

The Abilities Center

The Ann Arbor Center for Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics

Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District
Wayne County

2009-12-15T17:15:00.000-05:00

Reminder! Act Today!

IMMEDIATE ACTION ALERT: EMAIL OR SEND A LETTER TO SENATOR SANBORN'S COMMITTEE MEMBERS TODAY!

Senator Sanborn has agreed to do a whip count of his committee where the autism insurance legislation bills currently are and has indicated his willingness to consider holding a hearing if his committee is agreeable.
This is HUGE news! The Senate will be back in session for only one day this week, so we need your letters and emails to be at their office when they return on Thursday.

Please do NOT CALL THEM! This time, we want the communication to be done through emails and letters. You don't need to be a constituent either. Please contact each and every one of the seven members.

The contact info for the committee members is listed below, as well as a sample letter. Please personalize the letter with your own comments and personal story, but also please keep the letter extremely respectful and positive without any accusatory or demanding overtones.

Thank you!

Contact Information

All mailing addresses for the Senators on the Economic Development and Regulatory Reform Committee are as follows:

Senator (Last Name)
Post Office Box 30036
Lansing, MI 48909-7536

Alan Sanborn (Chair)
SenASanborn@senate.michigan.gov

Randy Richardville (Vice Chair)
SenRRichardville@senate.michigan.gov

Jason Allen
SenJAllen@senate.michigan.gov

Judson Gilbert
SenJGilbert@senate.michigan.gov

Samuel Buzz Thomas (Co-introduced the Senate legislation)
SenBThomas@senate.michigan.gov

Tupac Hunter (Co-introduced the Senate legislation)
SenTAHunter@senate.michigan.gov

Gilda Jacobs
SenGJacobs@senate.michigan.gov

Sample Letter

Dec. 11, 2009

Dear Senator ___________,

I would like you to consider my request for a hearing on Senate Bills 359 and 360, which will provide insurance coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
As a (parent/grandparent/teacher/therapist/etc.) of a child who has a diagnosis of autism, I have witnessed first-hand the devastating emotional and financial impact of this disorder on a family.
On behalf of the 14,000 children in the state of Michigan who are currently diagnosed with autism, and the many more to come in the years ahead based on the prevalence rate of 1 in 91 recently released by the CDC, I humbly request that a hearing be taken up on these bills so that the issues can be heard. A hearing will be able to show not only the immeasurable difference this legislation could make in the lives of Michigan families affected by autism, but also the enormous cost savings to society overall.
On behalf of the 14,000 Michigan children who need you to speak for them, I appreciate your consideration of a hearing on these very important bills.

Sincerely,

(Your name)
(City, Michigan)
(Phone number)

Contact Committee Members Today!

2009-12-12T11:26:00.000-05:00

They need to hear from us!

IMMEDIATE ACTION ALERT: EMAIL OR SEND A LETTER TO SENATOR SANBORN'S COMMITTEE MEMBERS TODAY!

Senator Sanborn has agreed to do a whip count of his committee where the autism insurance legislation bills currently are and has indicated his willingness to consider holding a hearing if his committee is agreeable.
This is HUGE news! The Senate will be back in session for only two days next week, so we need your letters and emails to be at their office when they return on Wednesday.

Please do NOT CALL THEM! This time, we want the communication to be done through emails and letters. You don't need to be a constituent either. Please contact each and every one of the seven members.

The contact info for the committee members is listed below, as well as a sample letter. Please personalize the letter with your own comments and personal story, but also please keep the letter extremely respectful and positive without any accusatory or demanding overtones.

Thank you!

Contact Information

All mailing addresses for the Senators on the Economic Development and Regulatory Reform Committee are as follows:

Senator (Last Name)
Post Office Box 30036
Lansing, MI 48909-7536

Alan Sanborn (Chair)
SenASanborn@senate.michigan.gov

Randy Richardville (Vice Chair)
SenRRichardville@senate.michigan.gov

Jason Allen
SenJAllen@senate.michigan.gov

Judson Gilbert
SenJGilbert@senate.michigan.gov

Samuel Buzz Thomas (Co-introduced the Senate legislation)
SenBThomas@senate.michigan.gov

Tupac Hunter (Co-introduced the Senate legislation)
SenTAHunter@senate.michigan.gov

Gilda Jacobs
SenGJacobs@senate.michigan.gov

Sample Letter

Dec. 11, 2009

Dear Senator ___________,

I would like you to consider my request for a hearing on Senate Bills 359 and 360, which will provide insurance coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
As a (parent/grandparent/teacher/therapist/etc.) of a child who has a diagnosis of autism, I have witnessed first-hand the devastating emotional and financial impact of this disorder on a family.
On behalf of the 14,000 children in the state of Michigan who are currently diagnosed with autism, and the many more to come in the years ahead based on the prevalence rate of 1 in 91 recently released by the CDC, I humbly request that a hearing be taken up on these bills so that the issues can be heard. A hearing will be able to show not only the immeasurable difference this legislation could make in the lives of Michigan families affected by autism, but also the enormous cost savings to society overall.
On behalf of the 14,000 Michigan children who need you to speak for them, I appreciate your consideration of a hearing on these very important bills.

Sincerely,

(Your name)
(City, Michigan)
(Phone number)

2009-12-02T22:02:00.000-05:00

IMMEDIATE ACTION ALERT: CALL YOUR SENATOR NOW! There is only a few days left in Lansing in 2009 to get our legislation passed. There will be a Senate Whip Count over the next couple days--a whip count is an unofficial vote to determine how many senators want Autism Insurance legislation to pass this year--and THAT COUNT will determine whether or not Autism Insurance legislation will get a hearing, be voted out of committee, and ultimately be passed in the Senate.

PLEASE CALL YOUR SENATOR TONIGHT AND THURSDAY!

THIS IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE! CALL TONIGHT TO LEAVE A MESSAGE AND IF YOU CAN, FOLLOW UP AND CALL BACK THURSDAY!!!!

Call your Senator and say, "I would like you to vote YES on Autism Insurance Legislation (House Bills 4183 and 4476)".

CLICK here to FIND YOUR SENATOR AND THEIR PHONE #.

SEE BELOW FOR LIST OF SENATORS AND PHONE #'S.

(If you are unable to determine who your Senator is, call Secretary of the Senate at (517) 373-2400.)

SENATORS:

Allen, Jason
(517)- 373-2413
Anderson, Glenn S.
(517)-373-1707
Barcia, Jim
(517)-373-177
Basham, Raymond E.
(517)-373-7800
Birkholz, Patricia L.
(517)-373-3447
Bishop, Michael
(517)- 373-2417
Brater, Liz
(517)-373-2406
Brown, Cameron
(517)- 373-5932
Cassis, Nancy
(517)- 373-1758
Clark-Coleman, Irma
(517)-373-0990
Clarke, Hansen
(517)-373-7346
Cropsey, Alan L.
(517) 373-3760
Garcia, Valde
(517) 373-2420
George, Thomas M.
(517)-373-0793
Gilbert II, Judson
(517)-373-7708
Gleason, John
(517)-373-0142
Hardiman, Bill
(517)-373-1801
Hunter, Tupac A.
(517)-373-0994
Jacobs, Gilda Z.
(517)-373-7888
Jansen, Mark C.
(517)-373-0797
Jelinek, Ron
(517)-373-6960
Kahn, Roger MD
(517)-373-1760
Kuipers, Wayne
(517)-373-6920
McManus, Michelle
(517)-373-1725
Olshove, Dennis
(517)-373-8360
Pappageorge, John
(517)-373-2523
Patterson, Bruce
(517)-373-7350
Prusi, Michael
(517)-373-7840
Richardville, Randy
(517)-373-3543
Sanborn, Alan
(517)-373-7670
Scott, Martha G.
(517)-373-7748
Stamas, Tony
(517)-373-7946
Switalski, Michael
(517)-373-7315
Thomas III, Samuel Buzz
(517)-373-7918
VanWoerkom, Gerald
(517)-373-1635
Whitmer, Gretchen
(517)-373-6960

ACTION ALERT!

2009-11-29T18:15:00.001-05:00

The Next 2 Weeks are Critical!
If we want autism insurance in Michigan, the next 2 weeks are going to be absolutely CRITICAL! Please be watching your email regularly and be ready to do everything you possibly can to help us be successful in this effort.

Updates
To get everyone updated about where things stand, House Bills 4183 & 4476 passed the House on June 24 and were sent to the Senate Economic Development and Regulatory Reform Committee, one day before the legislature ended for the summer. When the legislature returned in Sep., the only thing they were working on was the budget. The budget crisis wasn't resolved until the end of Oct. The Senate resumed regular business on Nov. 2 and then went on break Nov. 12 for 2 weeks. They will resume session again on Dec. 2, but have only 1 week that is definitely scheduled and a second week that is tentatively scheduled - then they will end session for the year. So, if we want our bills passed this year - our time is NOW!! We must be ready and willing to put everything we have into this effort over the next couple of weeks!

What You Can Do to Help!
What we need you to do now is to write a letter to the editor of your local paper/s. We need to generate as much media coverage as we can. Below is a sample letter, but please use your own words. All letters submitted must be original and usually are required to be 200 words or less.

Again, please be watching for more alerts in the coming days and weeks and be prepared to take action. The next alert will be coming Monday evening or Tuesday morning with our next steps for action.

Latest Updates!

2009-11-25T18:20:00.000-05:00

Call To Action in the Senate!

2009-10-30T12:39:00.000-04:00

Please contact your Senator via letters, phone calls or emails; even if you have written previously, and do it as soon as possible. Our insurance bills passed the House in June, now we need to face the Senate. Letter writing is the best way (but calls and emails work too) to let your Senator know that you want their support for autism insurance legislation, House Bills 4476 & 4183. You can use the template below, but please use your own words and personalize it. See below also for senator names and all contact info.
Don't know who your Senator is? Click here:FIND YOUR SENATOR
Know your Senator but need his/her contact info? Click here:LIST OF SENATORS WITH CONTACT INFO.

Dear Senator _____,

While other bills up for debate are important and worthy of your attention, I think you will find that those covering autism treatments can be distinguished from the rest. Individuals with autism are the only group completely excluded from coverage by most insurance policies. In most policies, there is no coverage, not even for the most evidence-based treatments.

Please consider the following facts:
1. Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate, learn and relate to others.
2. Regardless of policy language, insurers reject almost all claims for autism diagnosis and treatment, forcing many children to forego treatment.
3. Michigan spent nearly $100 million, on salaries alone, during the school year 2006-07 educating students with ASD (Dr. Koenigsnecht, 2009)
4. A recent Texas study determined the state could save up to $771.5 million in special education costs within the first 10 years after passing an autism insurance coverage law.
5. A cost analysis of MI's proposed insurance legislation, conducted in 2009, estimated a rate increase of about .7% (James Bouder Study).
6. 15 states have passed similar legislation and 31 states have either introduced legislation or have autism insurance reform bills pending.
7.Michigan ranks 13th in the prevalence of autism (US Dept. of Education), autism increased 1098% in the state between 1990 - 2000 (ages 6 - 21, IDEA data)
8. A majority of children, 87%, who receive appropriate intervention and treatment experience marked improvement - 47% recover "typical" function and 40% make significant improvement.

Please consider the facts and help stop the discrimination of our most vulnerable population. HB 4476 and HB 4183, requiring insurance coverage for autism screening, diagnosis and treatment, passed the House in June and are now in the Senate. The autism epidemic will have serious, long term costs for the state and society, unless we address the treatment needs of these children immediately. Most of all, this is having a devastating effect on Michigan's families.

Sincerely,

Name
Address
Phone Number

YESTERDAY'S 'YES' VOTE RESULTS! PLEASE CALL REPS TO THANK THEM!

2009-06-25T18:15:00.001-04:00

Click HERE to find the Rep's phone number

Kathy Angerer 517-373-1792
Marie Donigan
Marty Knollenberg
Gino Polidori
Richard Ball
Durhal
Kowall
Proos
Barnett
Ebli
Lahti
Roberts
Bauer
Espinoza
LeBlanc
Schmidt, R.
Bledsoe
Geiss
Leland
Scott, P.
Booher
Gonzales
Lemmons
Scripps
Brown, L.
Green
Lindberg
Segal
Brown, T.
Gregory
Lipton
Sheltrown
Byrnes
Griffin
Liss
Simpson
Byrum
Haase
Marleau
Slavens
Calley
Haines
Mayes
Slezak
Caul
Hammel
McDowell
Spade
Clemente
Hansen
Meadows
Stamas
Constan
Haugh
Melton
Stanley
Corriveau
Horn
Miller
Switalski
Coulouris
Huckleberry
Moore
Tlaib
Crawford
Jackson
Moss
Tyler
Cushingberry
Johnson
Nathan
Valentine
Dean Jones,
Robert
Nerat
Warren
Denby
Kandrevas
Neumann
Womack
Dillon
Kennedy
Opsommer
Young

BILLS PASS IN HOUSE 84 TO 25!!

2009-06-24T20:50:00.000-04:00

Despite heavy opposition, autism insurance legislative bills 4183 and 4476 passed in the House today under the leadership of Kathy Angerer, House Floor Leader. The vote was a convincing 84 to 25. Stay tuned for a list of which Reps votes Yes and which voted No. We go to the Senate next. Stay tuned for information on our next hurtle to jump!

See Jim Bouder and others' Testimony at Hearing 6/9/09!

2009-06-11T09:12:00.000-04:00

Jim Bouder of PA testified at the House Health Policy Committee Hearing 6/9/09. He testified as to the cost benefit of this insurance legislation. We thank Jim for volunteering his time and effort to those of us in MI affected by this legislation. We thank Jim for taking the time to create a cost benefit analysis specific to Michigan--this helped us pass our legislation through committee and will help us pass it through the House and ultimately the Senate as well! Thank you Jim! We also want to thank others who testified last week and this week--see videos to right!

AIM

It's Unanimous! Bills Pass Thru Committee Today!

2009-06-09T20:58:00.001-04:00

Both bills passed through Health Policy in the House today unanimously, 19-0! This means that the bills now go to the house Floor. We are hoping they will pass through the House soon! This is very exciting but is by no means a sure thing in the House. Please stay tuned for upcoming action alerts to help with this! Thank you across MI for helping to push this legislation forward.

AIM

2nd Hearing SCHEDULED FOR 6/9/09!!

2009-06-04T22:51:00.000-04:00

Yes!! A 2nd HEARING HAS BEEN SCHEDULED FOR OUR LEGISLATION IN THE HOUSE HEALTH POLICY COMMITTEE ON TUESDAY, 6/9/09! THE HEARING WILL TAKE PLACE AT 10:30AM IN ROOM 519 OF THE HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING.

THE FACT THAT WE ARE GETTING A SECOND HEARING SO SOON IS IMPORTANT! TAKE NOTICE!

All are welcome to attend the hearing to show their support. Show your support of this legislation--wear your AIM rally T Shirt or buy an AIM shirt at the hearing to show solidarity. There will be people giving testimony as at the last hearing. Those wishing to provide written testimony need to supply a minimum of 30 copies-- and most importantly, IF YOU LIVE IN THE DISTRICT OF THE HEALTH POLICY COMMITTEE MEMBERS, PLEASE CONTACT THAT REPRESENTATIVE (see below). If you're not sure if theY represent your district, go to LIST OF REPS

Marc R. Corriveau (D), Committee Chair - 517-373-3816
Kate Segal (D), Majority Vice-Chair - 517-373-0555
Jim Marleau (R), Minority Vice-Chair - 517-373-1798
Richard Ball (R) - 517-373-0841
Brian N. Calley (R) - 517-373-0842
Hugh D. Crawford (R) - 517-373-0827
Cindy Denby (R) - 517-373-8835
Kevin Green (R) - 517-373-2277
Tim Moore (R) - 517-373-8962
Paul Scott (R) - 517-373-1780
Barb Byrum (D) - 517-373-0587
Andy Coulouris (D) - 517-373-0152
Marie Donigan (D) - 517-373-3818
Bert Johnson (D) - 517-373-0144
Lesia Liss (D) - 517-373-2275
Andy Neumann (D) - 517-373-0833
Roy Schmidt (D) - 517-373-0822
Mike Simpson (D) - 517-373-1775
Dian Slavens (D) - 517-373-2575
Mary Valentine (D) - 517-373-3436
Jimmy Womack (D) - 517-373-0589

HEARING TUESDAY VERY POSITIVE!

2009-06-04T10:45:00.000-04:00

The hearing in the Health Policy Committee on Tuesday, 6/2/09 was very positive overall. To see testimony, go to TESTIMONY. Most of the testimonies were given by invitees of Kathy Angerer and Marc Corriveau, as well as by some parents. The discussion afterwards with legislators was positive as well. It is important for anyone who lives in the districts of those Health Policy Members, please email thanking them for listening to all the testimony and thank them in advance of their support of these bills. AIM will be posting new info soon as we get it as to the next step, likely another hearing soon and we hope to have a vote that will get this legislation out of committee! See list below of Reps and their district numbers, please- if you live in their district, thank them! If you need assistance finding out if you live in their district, please go to FIND LEGISLATOR

Marc R. Corriveau (D), Committee Chair - 517-373-3816
Kate Segal (D), Majority Vice-Chair - 517-373-0555
Jim Marleau (R), Minority Vice-Chair - 517-373-1798
Richard Ball (R) - 517-373-0841
Brian N. Calley (R) - 517-373-0842
Hugh D. Crawford (R) - 517-373-0827
Cindy Denby (R) - 517-373-8835
Kevin Green (R) - 517-373-2277
Tim Moore (R) - 517-373-8962
Paul Scott (R) - 517-373-1780
Barb Byrum (D) - 517-373-0587
Andy Coulouris (D) - 517-373-0152
Marie Donigan (D) - 517-373-3818
Bert Johnson (D) - 517-373-0144
Lesia Liss (D) - 517-373-2275
Andy Neumann (D) - 517-373-0833
Roy Schmidt (D) - 517-373-0822
Mike Simpson (D) - 517-373-1775
Dian Slavens (D) - 517-373-2575
Mary Valentine (D) - 517-373-3436
Jimmy Womack (D) - 517-373-0589

HEARING SCHEDULED THIS COMING TUES 6/2!

2009-05-30T12:45:00.000-04:00

A HEARING HAS BEEN SCHEDULED FOR OUR LEGISLATION IN THE HOUSE HEALTH POLICY COMMITTEE ON TUESDAY, 6/2/09! THE HEARING WILL TAKE PLACE AT 10:30AM IN ROOM 519 OF THE HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING.

All are welcome to attend the hearing to show their support. Show your support of this legislation--wear your AIM rally T Shirt or buy an AIM shirt at the hearing to show solidarity. There will be panels of self-advocates; parents; Dr. Ruth Anan, PhD, BCBA, Licensed Psychologist and Director of Early Childhood Development at William Beaumont Hospital; Dr. Rick Solomon, MD, The Ann Arbor Center for Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics; and Lorri Unumb, parent and Senior Policy Director & Counsel for Autism Speaks, who will testify on behalf of the bills. Those wishing to provide written testimony need to supply a minimum of 30 copies-- and most importantly, CONTACT YOUR REPRESENTATIVE! If you need help figuring out who your Representative is, please see the links at the right sidebar of this page, or email traveltrio@verizon.net for help.

WE APPRECIATE YOUR TIME AND THE EFFORT YOU PUT INTO WRITING LETTERS TO YOUR LEGISLATORS--IF YOU HAVE NOT DONE SO YET, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO IT NOW! :
1. Take the time to write a letter or email and
2. Send us an email at at traveltrio@verizon.net to let us know who you sent your letter to so that we can follow up with those legislators at their offices.
This is integral to passage of this legislation!

See below for instructions for letter writing:
If you do not know who your state Representative is, see link at right sidebar to find out. If you do know who your Rep is but need contact info, go to LIST OF REPS
IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO WRITE THE MEMBERS OF THE HEALTH POLICY COMMITTEE (see list of its members at bottom of this email). It is important to write a letter, if at all possible, and, if you are unable to do that, then please email your legislator.

We have been told by legislators that they tally both letters and emails, but that LETTERS count almost 10 to 1 more than emails.

It is extremely important that you add your own personal experience of how autism affects you and your family. Then please also add these basic talking points to your letter in your own words, it is important that each letter be unique:

1. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address.
2. Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate, learn and relate to others.
3. A recent Texas study determined the state could save up to $771.5 million in special education costs alone within the first 10 years after passing an autism insurance coverage law.
4. Regardless of policy, almost all claims for autism diagnosis and treatment are rejected by insurers in Michigan.
5. A cost analysis of MI's proposed insurance legislation was conducted in 2008 and estimated a rate increase of .5% (James Bouder Study).
6. 14 other states have passed similar legislation.
7. Bills have been introduced in both the House (House Bill 4476 & 4183) and Senate (Senate Bills 359/360) that require medical insurance companies to cover the cost of screening, diagnosis and treatment

FOX 2 News Coverage of the Rally 4/28/09!

2009-05-05T07:46:00.000-04:00

RALLY NEWS ARTICLE AND VIDEO

SAVE THE DATE! RALLY PLANNED FOR APRIL 28TH!

2009-03-26T23:10:00.000-04:00

Please plan to spend the day! Bring all your friends and family.

Official Agenda will soon follow. See below for a few more details of what we will be doing while we are in Lansing together...

1. Brief Advocacy Training
2. Meetings with Senators and Representatives
3. Speakers
4. Resource Fair

LEGISLATION REINTRODUCED IN THE SENATE!

2009-03-12T20:39:00.000-04:00

Senator Tupac Hunter with co-sponsor Thomas reintroduced autism insurance legislation. To see the language, go to SB359 . This bill was referred to the Senate Committee Economic Development and Regulatory Reform, whose members include Senators Hunter, Thomas, Jacobs, Richardville and more (list of committee members --just click on "Committee Information" at top, then "Standing Committees at left bottom). We are excited about this opportunity now facing us! We are in very good positions in both the House and the Senate. Please stay tuned for upcoming Rally information and Action Alerts, coming soon!

AIM

ANGERER REINTRODUCES AUTISM INSURANCE HB 4476

2009-02-27T21:10:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to let you all know that, as of late Thursday afternoon, Rep. Angerer's bill (companion to Rep. Ball's bill introduced already) was introduced. It is called HB 4476 and can be viewed here: HB 4476
We expect a bill in the Senate to soon follow.

AIM

Weekly Conference Call Meeting

2009-02-17T22:18:00.000-05:00

Just an update---the weekly conference calls have continued through the new year. Members have met with legislators and doing networking to further this legislation in the state of Michigan.

Minutes from the 12/18/08 Call-In Conference

2008-12-31T11:29:00.000-05:00

-Review possible Jason Allen chairing Sen. Health policy Committee
-Follow up with Michigan Catholic Conference
-Follow up with National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW)
-Set up meeting with Nancy Cassis
-Work on media and target story around family
-Coordinate media with Autism Speaks
-Prepare talking points memo
-Set up meeting with Andy Dillon
-Set up meeting with Mike Bishop

Next Call In Meeting: Every Thursday

AIM Committee Call-In Meeting 12/11/08:

2008-12-11T22:36:00.000-05:00

1. Arrange meeting with Mark Coriveau
2. Set up Mike Bishop meeting
3. Work on list of support organizations
4. Set up meeting with Andy Dillon
Notes: a. Tupac Hunter submitted already to have bills reintroduced
b. Consider rally planning for February
c. Bills to be reintroduced in January

Next Meeting:
Every Thursday

AIM Committee Meeting 11.6.08

2008-11-13T09:32:00.000-05:00

AGENDA
1. To work with Michigan stakeholders to enact legislation which required insurance carried in Michigan to provide coverage for autism related treatments
2. Reveiw results of election
3. Review team assignments
4. Review list of supporting organizations
5. Review opposition
6. Develop straregy
7. Develop timetable

NEXT MEETING
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Noon-1:00pm Conference Call
Discuss progress and next steps

AIM Committee Meeting 10.30.08

2008-11-13T08:19:00.000-05:00

AGENDA
1. To work with Michigan stakeholders to enact legislation which requires insurance carried to provide coverage for autism related treaments.
2. Review revised draft for legislation
3. Review team assignments
4. Review list of supporting organizations
5. Reivew opposition
6. Develop strategy
7. Develop timetable

NEXT MEETING
Thursday, November 6th, 2008
Noon - 1:00 pm Conference Call
Follow-up after election results

TASK FORCE MEETING UPDATE:

2008-07-20T20:08:00.000-04:00

Q: Who was there as opponents?
A: Insurance companies, Small Business Organizations, UAW, Mental Health Parity Reps, ARC Rep

Q: What was accomplished?
A: All sides were asked by Rep. Angerer to present any additions/changes they would like to be made to the current bills as they are written

Q: What's next?
A: Rep. Angerer will make changes to the legislation, taking into consideration the comments of the work group.

Q: How long will this process take?
A: We are not sure, but a month would be a low estimate for all of the above to occur. WE WILL KEEP YOU UPDATED AS WE GET INFORMATION!!!!

RESULTS OF THE TOWN HALL MTG JULY 9:

2008-07-14T20:27:00.000-04:00

Due to technical difficulties, there was a delay in this post, we apologize.

Thanks to all of the wonderful people who showed up at the Town Hall Mtg at Judson Center July 9. We appreciated all your suggestions, questions and overwhelming offers of help. We will take all of you up on those offers! Most people were just wondering how to push this legislation through as it seems to be stalled.

If you haven't already viewed it, please see our position statement in older post below.

If anyone has further concerns or questions, please email Ann Breznai at traveltrio@verizon.net.

We will post an update after the task force meeting.

ALERT!! TOWN HALL MEETING SCHEDULED FOR WED.

2008-07-05T20:21:00.000-04:00

Thank you to all who called Rep. Angerer's office a couple of weeks ago. The response was overwhelming and as a result, Rep. Angerer is going to schedule a task force meeting in Lansing. Please come to a town hall meeting on Wednesday, July 9, 2008 to discuss any concerns you would like for AIM to take to the task force meeting. We would like to represent as many parents as possible at that meeting, so please come to the town hall meeting on July 9. If you cannot attend, please email your concerns to traveltrio@verizon.net or mhusband@twmi.rr.com , and we will take them to Lansing. Please see the AIM position statement below, or for a copy, go to AIM POSITION STATEMENT .

The Town Hall Meeting will be held at 7:30 pm at Judson Center 4410 West 13 Mile Road, Royal Oak on July 9, 2008.

2008-07-05T20:19:00.000-04:00



Autism Insurance Michigan

Position Statement on HB 5527, HB 5529, SB 784 & SB 785

It is our position that legislation should be passed in the state of Michigan that will require insurance companies to cover diagnosis, treatment and services for all people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

It is our position that all people with ASD should be covered, regardless of age.

It is our position that Autism Spectrum Disorder is defined as any of the pervasive developmental disorders as defined by the most recent edition of the DSM.

It is our position that this coverage should include treatments as prescribed or ordered by the insured’s treating physician or psychologist and that no insurer may deny coverage for an individual based solely on the fact that the individual is diagnosed with an ASD.

It is our position that covered treatments shall not be subject to visit limits.

It is our position that there should be a provision for an expedited arbitration process if an insurance company denies coverage or changes coverage status.

It is also our position that coverage should not be construed as limiting access to benefits or other services that are otherwise available to an individual.

ACTION ALERT!!!

2008-06-18T21:05:00.001-04:00

MI House ACTION ALERT

We need your help today! Rep Kathy Angerer promised the autism community that, as Chair of the House Health Policy Committee, there would be a hearing and our bills would have a vote in the month of June. However, we are getting strong indications that, due to pressure from the UAW (who have stated opposition to the bills) and the fact that this is an election year, Rep. Angerer may decide not to hold a vote!

We are asking you to PLEASE CALL Rep Angerer's office today!!! We need to flood her office with calls from anyone and everyone---if you care about these bills, call TODAY!!! 517-373-1792 As committee chair, all MI residents are her consituents! Please forward this email to friends, family and others in our community.Please tell her that you support House bills 5527 and 5529 and that you want her to keep her word and vote the bills out of her committee. If you are a UAW member, please let her know and tell her that the UAW leadership is NOT representing your interests. Please let her know that the UAW leadership has not discussed their position with their members. UAW members, not it's leadership, represent a lot of VOTES! Please let her know that you expect these bills to move out of her committee before the end of June - just as she has promised!!

IF YOU HAVE BLUE CROSS--SEE THIS INFO ON CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT!

2008-06-12T05:17:00.000-04:00

I received this information from a local lawyer, who is filing class action against Blue Cross under ERISA regulations, for not covering ABA. Please see info below and contact his office if you are interested:

Dear Ms. Husband,

We have filed a class action lawsuit against Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan because of their denial of coverage for applied behavior analysis treatment for autistic children. Blue Cross claims that ABA treatment is experimental or investigatory, and uses this as a basis for denying coverage. Blue Cross makes this claim, despite the fact that ABA is a scientifically valid and medically accepted treatment.

We have therefore filed a class action against Blue Cross under the Federal Employee Retirement Insurance Savings Act (ERISA). One of the requirements for a class action is that the class be numerous. This means there must be a large number of people who are all similarly situated. Usually, 40 class members are sufficient to satisfy the numerosity requirement.

In our case, the class consists of:

all plan participants and beneficiaries insured under ERISA-governed employee benefit plans administered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Michigan who have been denied coverage for ABA treatment within the last six years.

We would like to know how many individuals meet this definition. That is, how many people have employee benefit plans administered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, and have also been denied coverage for applied behavioral analysis treatment within the last six years.

If we can show that the class is large it will help us certify the case as a class action. Anyone who thinks that they fall within the class definition may contact:

Gerard Mantese
Mark Rossman .
David Hansma
Mantese & Rossman, P.C.
1361 East Big Beaver Rd
Troy, MI 48083
(248) 457-9200 dhansma@manteselaw.com

John J. Conway
John J. Conway, P.C.
645 Griswold St, Ste 3600
Detroit, MI
(313) 961-6525
john@johnjconway.com

Research Check-offs 957 & 958 PASSED OUT OF SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE!

2008-06-06T07:24:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, Ann Breznai was invited to attend the Senate Finance Committee Hearing (an impromptu scheduling), as a parent, as they were going to discuss and vote on the Check-off Bills 957 and 958 (See this page's "Links" section for details of the bills, companion bills to HB 5526 & 5528). They were unanimous (6-0) in their decision to pass these bills out of committee and onto the Senate Floor for vote. Please contact your Senator and express your support of these bills!

Senate Finance Hearing TOMORROW!!!

2008-06-04T12:00:00.000-04:00

The Michigan Senate Finance Committee is voting on the Income Tax Check-off Box Bills Tomorrow!

What can you do?

Attend the committee meeting in Lansing to show your support (details below), or
contact the members of the senate Finance committee:
Senators Cassis (C), Gilbert (VC), McManus, Jansen, Prusi (MVC), Jacobs, and Whitmer. Ask them to vote “YES” on SB 957 and SB 958.

Details of the bills being proposed can be found here:
http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(t1k0ca55r2yrq5m4uzd1d4yu))/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectname=2007-SB-0957

Committee Meeting

Committee
Finance
Clerk Phone Number
373-1758
Location
Room 110, Farnum Building, 125 W. Allegan Street, Lansing, MI 48933
Date
Thursday, 6/5/2008
Time
11:00 AM
Agenda
SB 886 (Gilbert) Property tax; principal residence exemption; active duty individual renting out principal residence while away; allow to retain exemption. SB 957 (Hunter) Income tax; other; autism research fund; create. Sb 958
Chair
Nancy Cassis

Senate Action Alert

2008-05-26T21:37:00.000-04:00

ACTION NEEDED!
On May 14, Senator Tom George (R-20) held a hearing on the bills, along with other insurance bills, in the Senate Health Policy Committee. In order for the bills to continue moving forward and to have a vote to get them out of committee, we need to encourage the Senators on that committee to give us our own hearing and a vote. We need them to go on record in favor of SB 784 & 785.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP RIGHT NOW?
STARTING ON TUESDAY MAY 27, 2008 AT 9:00AM through TUESDAY, MAY 27 at 5:30PM! The Senators are in only one day this week, let's make sure they hear from us before they leave!!

1. CALL the members of the Senate Health Policy Committee and ask for their support for SB 784 & 785. Let them know how much we need their help and what this would mean to your child and your family. Definitely MAKE THE CALL! (Template to the left)
Name District Phone
Sen. Tom George (Committee Chair) 20th (517) 373-0793
Sen. Bruce Patterson (Majority Vice-Chair) 7th (517) 373-7350
Sen. Alan Sanborn 11th (517) 373-7670
Sen. Jason Allen 37th (517) 373-2413
Sen. Hansen Clarke (Minority Vice-Chair) 1st (517) 373-7346
Sen. John Gleason 27th (517) 373-0142
Sen. Gilda Jacobs 14th (517) 373-7888

2. FOLLOW UP WITH AN EMAIL to the members of the Senate Health Policy Committee as well and be sure to include one or two paragraphs about why this is an important issue to you! (To the left of this post is a template you can use for both phone or email. Remember that it is best to use your own words, if possible. Personalization makes a big difference and gets more attention!)
Sen. George sentgeorge@senate.michigan.gov
Sen. Patterson senbpatterson@senate.michigan.gov
Sen. Sanborn senasanborn@senate.michigan.gov
Sen. Allen senjallen@senate.michigan.gov
Sen. Clarke senhclarke@senate.michigan.gov
Sen. Gleason senjgleason@senate.michigan.gov
Sen. Jacobs sengjacobs@senate.michigan.gov

3. PASS THIS ALERT ALONG! Forward this ALERT out to anyone you know who will help who lives in Michigan. We need to demonstrate the strength of the autism community in our state. Please forward to teachers, therapists, family members and neighbors to ask for their support on this important piece of legislation. We need everyone's help!

MINUTES AVAILABLE FROM HEARING:

2008-05-22T08:40:00.000-04:00

Click on this link to see the minutes from the Senate Health Policy Hearing! HEARING MINUTES

News on the Hearing 5/14/08:

2008-05-14T22:54:00.000-04:00

The Hearing went well today in Lansing. We got 20 mins total to speak, and 5 of "us" spoke and I must say, put up some DAMN good arguments. Thanks to Tom and Amy for coming from Kalamazoo and giving some seriously compelling testimony. I heard from one attendee that said Tom's testimony was Amazing! We had a lot of people there representing the Autism community---thank you to all those who attended and to all those who emailed and called their Senators!! We got lots of good feedback from those of you who attended so we are hoping we did the job right. There is more work to be done though! It seems as though the health policy committee may pick ONE mandate to pass out of committee. Please keep watching this site as we will be asking you all to call and email your Senators and Reps---OUR NEXT MOVE IS LIKELY TO BE TO ASK THEM TO CO-SPONSOR THESE BILLS. Please keep this in mind and think about taking one morning or one afternoon in the next month to ask your Senator and Representative for a personal meeting, whether it must be in Lansing or local to you. We will ask you all to begin working on this in the next few weeks. We have gotten some good information that these bills may be voted out of House committee in June but we must keep the pressure ON! Just to show you how important "pressure" is, here is what Crain's Business said about this hearing:
"Sen. Tom George, R-Kalamazoo, said he called the hearing on mandates after receiving many requests for bills from special-interest groups."
STAY TUNED!!!!!

Preparations for Wednesdays Hearing

2008-05-12T10:00:00.000-04:00

We are asking that you bring written statements with you to the hearing. There will be a public comment period at the end of the hearing. Even if you choose not to speak, please, fill out one of the cards stating your support of the bills. Everyone should fill out a card! You want to state that you are in favor of SB784 & SB 785. The card is also how you request speaking time during the comment period.

For a map and directions to Boji Tower, click the link on the left side of this page.

BREAKING NEWS!!!!! HEARING IN THE SENATE!!!!!

2008-05-09T08:25:00.000-04:00

We have just learned that Senator George has scheduled a hearing for all of the insurance mandates (including autism insurance)for next Wednesday, May 14 at 3 p.m. It will be held at the Boji Tower building (tallest building with clock on it) in Lansing near the Capitol building. It will be in the Senate Hearing Room.

BRING SIGNS THAT SAY "AUTISM"
WE WILL BRING EXTRA SIGNS

It is IMPERATIVE that we show up with as many people as possible to this hearing, showing that autism insurance coverage is SO important, that we not only want this legislation passed separate from all the other mandates, but that we want our own separate hearing! Also, following the scheduled testimony, there will be a chance for PUBLIC TESTIMONY (just like the House Health Policy hearing). We will have a chance to make ourselves heard!

PLEASE COME AND BRING AS MANY PEOPLE AS YOU POSSIBLY CAN!!!!!!
SEE YOU IN LANSING NEXT WED.
WE WILL PROVIDE UPDATES AS THEY BECOME AVAILABLE!!

Photo Slideshow of Rally by Cecelia Hammond!

2008-04-30T23:10:00.000-04:00

We hope to have the video clip of Justin Harlan from the hearing last year...to come soon.

Click here to see a great photo slideshow by Cecelia Hammond, President of the Southeast Wayne County chapter of ASA: PHOTOS

LINK TO PICTURES, PRESS RELEASE HERE:

2008-04-22T22:21:00.000-04:00

To see some pictures of the rally, go to: SEE PICTURES

To go to a copy of the press release, go to: PRESS RELEASE

RALLY A SUCCESS!

2008-04-22T17:51:00.000-04:00

The rally was a great success today. Reports are that there were around 750 people who attended the rally! That is great news, we showed our legislators and the state of Michigan that we want a hearing---we want this legislation passed! As soon as we get some links to video news coverage of the rally, we will post it, so keep watching!

RALLY TUESDAY!!!!!!

2008-04-20T19:31:00.000-04:00

The rally is Tuesday, it's almost here. Many different groups have made almost a thousand signs, so please come to the rally and use them! We need as many people as possible to show up, rain or shine, to show these legislators that we have numbers and VOTES and we want this legislation passed!

Make sure to bring folding chairs, sack lunch, digital cameras and take lots of pictures to share with your legislators.

Make sure you stop in to see your legislators, we will have their information including their office locations at the rally.

If you don't know who your legislator is, we will have that info for you at the rally as well.

See posts below for more info, maps, parking info, etc. Please email us at traveltrio@verizon.net if you have any questions!!

4 DAYS UNTIL THE RALLY!!!!!!! Speakers Agenda:

2008-04-18T20:46:00.000-04:00

Rally Speakers

Rachel McCleery, Miss Monroe County, will be making a few announcements and doing brief introductions for many of the speakers
State Representative Kathy Angerer – (D – 55, Dundee) Chair of Health Policy Comm., Sponsor HB 5527
State Senator Tupac Hunter – (D – 5, Detroit) Assistant Minority Leader, Sponsor SB 784 & 785
State Representative Richard Ball (R – 85, Laingsburg) Sponsor HB 5529
Kimberly Maddox-Reihl – Executive Director of Autism Society of Michigan
Stephanie Harlan – Director of Judson Center Autism Connections, Parent of a child with Autism
Justin Harlan – 9 yr. old boy and Self Advocate
Senator Randy Richardville – (R – 17, Monroe), President Pro Tempore
State Representative Paul Opsommer – (R – 93, Dewitt) Uncle to a child with Autism
State Senator Liz Brater – (D – 18, Ann Arbor)
Kelly Kinney – Parent of a child with Autism
Heidi Scheer – Mrs. Michigan, Parent of a child with Autism
State Representative John Espinoza – (D – 83, Croswell) Grandparent of a child with Autism
Senator John Gleason – (D – 27, Flushing)
Don Spencer – Superintendent of Monroe County ISD
Val Callahan – Celebrities Against Autism, Parent of a child with Autism
Shelley Hendrix – Director of State Advocacy Relations for Autism Speaks, Parent of a child with Autism
State Senator Hansen Clarke – (D – 1, Detroit)
Cecelia Hammond - President ASA SE Wayne County Chapter and Grandparent to a child with Autsim
Blake Hammond - 16 yr. old Self Advocate

The Governor is sending her staff to listen to the speakers, talk to people and report back.

We may also have Patti Tapia from Autism Speaks and Lisa Gallipoli, National Director of Field Operations for Autism Speaks. I should hear today whether they can attend.

8 Days Until the Rally on the Capitol steps 4/22!

2008-04-13T18:24:00.000-04:00

Here are the latest details of the rally:
Make sure to bring-
1. Folding chairs for you and family--drop off chairs prior to parking so you don't have to carry
2. Sack lunch- we will have some bottles of water free to attendees(while supplies last)
3. Digital camera so that you can email pictures of the rally to your local paper.
4. We will have over 500 signs made but feel free to bring your own, or bring a picture of your child and we can tape it to an already made sign. We will have tape available to do this.

So far unfortunately, we will not be providing any buses.

We will have people ready to find out who your Rep and Senators are so that you can go visit them in their offices. Make sure you find your way to those designated tables.

Parking: During weekdays, parking is a major problem around the Capitol. Although there is metered parking on all streets around Capitol Square, it is not adequate to handle the number of individuals who desire to park close to the Capitol. There are six parking ramps within three blocks of the Capitol: Boji Parking Ramp at the corner of Capitol and Allegan, the ramp at the corner of Townsend and Washtenaw, the City Parking Ramp at Capitol and Kalamazoo, the City Parking Ramp at the intersection of Allegan and Grand, the City Parking Ramp at Ottawa and Grand, and the City Parking Ramp at Capitol and Shiawassee. Parking space for cars and vans is also available in the Michigan Library and Historical Center parking lot.

Also, for a map of the Capitol's parking areas go to PARKING

To get directions to the Capitol, go to MAPQUEST

For talking points when you meet with you legislator, go to Talking Points

To print a sign, go to SIGN

House of Reps passes check off bills for research 5528,5526!

2008-03-18T18:02:00.000-04:00

We just received this news The House of Representatives in Lansing today voted on House Bills 5528 and 5526 and they passed! There was only one "no" vote and the bills received "immediate effect".
We will keep everyone updated on any additional related news.

RALLY ON THE CAPITOL STEPS, APRIL 22ND!!!!

2008-03-17T20:54:00.000-04:00

We are planning a Rally on the Capitol Steps on Apr. 22 from 11am - 2pm. It is Autism Awareness Month and this is our chance to make our insurance bills front and center. We need EVERYONE for this!! Please, bring your friends, relatives, neighbors and, especially, your families. We need to have a strong showing, a really strong showing! We are trying to get at least 1,000 people on the steps in Lansing!! This is our big chance, all the legislators will see us, we've made sure of that. It is our time to show them just how big this problem is, that we have the numbers to make a difference and our votes will be heard. We have a good chance of getting these bills through this year, but we can't do it without your help! More details will come as we get closer, but we wanted to give you time to make arrangements at work, etc. Let's show them we won't accept anything less than equal insurance coverage! Please, share this information with everyone - pass this on!

Senate Passes DOUBLE funding of Combating Autism Act 3/13/08!!

2008-03-14T21:06:00.000-04:00

The Senate voted late on 3/13/08 and passed an amendment by Sens. Dodd and Collins that would double the funding for fiscal year 2009 Combating Autism Act. Additionally, Senator Arlen Specter and Senator Tom Harkin offered an amendment to increase research funding at the NIH by 2 billion in FY2009. Both amendments passed overwhelmingly. Autism Speaks and its reps (and many of you!) called their Senators from Michigan to help get these amendments passed. YOUR EFFORTS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!! See these links to read more on this story:
http://www.autismspeaks.org/government_affairs/index.php
http://dodd.senate.gov/index.php?q=node/4325

Can you help us? We are looking for help in 2 areas.....

2008-03-03T20:51:00.000-05:00

(1)We are looking for members of the Michigan Autism community to contact Senator George. If you reside in Senator George's District, that is even better. Senator George represents the 20th Senate District including all of Kalamazoo County plus Paw Paw and Antwerp Twps. in Van Buren County. We need people to contact him and ask him to hold a hearing on Senate bills 784 & 785 in front of the Senate Health Policy Committee. Senator George's phone number is (517)373-0793 and his email is SenTGeorge@senate.michigan.gov (2)We also need you to contact Senator Bishop. We need members of the Autism community (if you are in his District, even better) to write/call him in support of the Autism Insurance Legislation. Senator Bishop represents 12th Senate District including Addision Twp, Auburn Hills, Independence Twp, Keego Harbor, Lake Angelus, Oakland Twp., Orion Twp., Oxford Twp., Pontiac, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Sylvan Lake and Clarkston. Ask him, as Senate Majority Leader, to rally the Republican Caucus in support of this bipartisan, children's issue and co-sponsor Senate Bills 784 & 785. Senator Bishop's phone number is (517)373-2417 and his email is SenMBishop@senate.michigan.gov We appreciate your help and support!!!

Genessee County News Coverage of Insurance Legislation

2008-03-03T20:47:00.000-05:00

Click on this link to view the Genesee area news coverage of the Insurance Legislation!Thanks to Cheryll Ennest of The Autism Support Group of Genesee County for sending this link! You can view the minutes from the hearing and read written copies of testimony given.

PLEASE FORWARD YOUR INSURANCE POLICY'S COVERAGE/EXCLUSIONS FOR AUTISM!

2008-02-24T21:18:00.001-05:00

Please email us your insurance policy's exclusionary language for autism treatments. This is very important because some legislators do not believe that our policies specifically exclude autism, they believe that we can negotiate the terms or purchase a rider to cover these treatments. THEY DON'T UNDERSTAND WHAT WE GO THROUGH! So please ask your Human Resources department for the specific wording from your insurance carrier regarding those exclusions and forward to traveltrio@verizon.net
Thank you!

Autism Speaks announces "MICHIGAN" as a KEY battleground in the effort to change Insurance laws!

2008-02-24T21:11:00.000-05:00

Autism Speaks Announces Multi-State Insurance Legislation Campaign: Florida, California, Michigan and Pennsylvania are Key Battlegrounds in Effort to Change Insurance Laws and Require Coverage of Medically Necessary Services.
http://www.autismspeaks.org/press/insurance_legislation_campaign.php

Don Spencer, Monroe County ISD Superintendent, Gives Full Support!

2008-02-22T00:26:00.000-05:00

What follows is the text of the actual letter sent by Don Spencer to Senator Richardville, please feel free to copy it and use it in your lobbying efforts:

"February 11, 2008
Dear Senator Richardville:

"I wish to urge your support of several bills that have been introduced in the House that, if passed will support Autism Spectrum Disorder research, place a check-off box on the state income tax form for filers to donate to the Autism Research Fund and require health insurers to cover [ASD] related health treatments. The bills are House Bill 5528, which would create the Autism Research Fund Act; House Bill 5526, which would amend the Income Tax Act; House Bill 5527 and House Bill 5529, which would add a new section to the insurance laws which would require health insurers and HMO's to provide coverage for [ASD].

"During my career at the MCISD, I have observed significant increases in the number of students with disabilities related to [ASD]. Since 2001, the Monroe County [ISD] incidence rate for [ASD] has increased from 96 students to nearly 300 students between the ages of birth [to] 26. This is a conservative number based on the fact that many of these students are initially diagnosed during infancy as having a language disorder or some other developmental delay. The support system for these students and families outside of education has failed to respond to this rapid increase. It is time that Michigan become a leader in the research, diagnosis and treatment of disabilities related to [ASD]. As I reviewed the bills, I could see great potential for these funds to result in new opportunites for these children and their families. It would also elminiate discriminatory practices that insurance companies engage in today when it comes to covering treatments related to [ASD]. This lack of coverage often results in families looking to their school districts for medical treatments. [ASD] is a serious health threat to the families of Monroe County and throughout Michigan. Families of students affected by this need the support of the state and community health agencies. They need medical insurance to cover their children's treatment. Our society also needs to understand the reasons that we are experiencing such a large increase in the incidence rate for Autism Spectrum Disorder.

"Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any help in promoting the passage of these bills and I encourage your support to see that they are passed as soon as possible."

Sincerely,
Donald A. Spencer
Superintendent

cc: Monroe County Superintendents' Association
Monroe County Association Boards of Education

Autism Insurance in Michigan (AIM)

BREAKING NEWS!

UPDATE FROM THE CAPITOL:

Today is the FINAL DAY!

We are still alive... but we need your help!

CRITICAL ACTION NEEDED THIS MORNING!!

AUTISM EMERGENCY!

IT'S THE FINAL COUNTDOWN!

It's the FINAL COUNTDOWN!

ACTION ALERT!

THIS IS IT!!!

Action Alert!

Call Mike Bishop Today!!

Now is the Time!

Next Senate Workgroup Announced!

Candidate Surveys 2010

Third Senate Workgroup Scheduled

Action Needed!

Autism Coverage Petition

SAVE THE DATE!

The Second Senate Workgroup Session

Article in the Eastern Echo paper Article from the Ann Arbor News WWJ Newsradio coverage Listen to a brief radio clip from EMU news radioStory from the Monroe News

Article in the Eastern Echo paper Article from the Ann Arbor News WWJ Newsradio coverage Listen to a brief radio clip from EMU news radioStory from the Monroe News

Autism Workgroup Session this Monday, May 24th!

Press Conference in Lansing a Success!

Bipartisan legislative task force to take public comment on autism insurance

You're Invited to Autism Awareness Day the Capitol - April 27th!

Autism Awareness Day at the Capitol- April 27th

Why Michigan Still Needs Autism Insurance Legislation

Your Contacts are Needed!

Contact Committee Members Today!

ACTION ALERT!

Latest Updates!

Call To Action in the Senate!

YESTERDAY'S 'YES' VOTE RESULTS! PLEASE CALL REPS TO THANK THEM!

BILLS PASS IN HOUSE 84 TO 25!!

See Jim Bouder and others' Testimony at Hearing 6/9/09!

It's Unanimous! Bills Pass Thru Committee Today!

2nd Hearing SCHEDULED FOR 6/9/09!!

HEARING TUESDAY VERY POSITIVE!

HEARING SCHEDULED THIS COMING TUES 6/2!

FOX 2 News Coverage of the Rally 4/28/09!

SAVE THE DATE! RALLY PLANNED FOR APRIL 28TH!

LEGISLATION REINTRODUCED IN THE SENATE!

ANGERER REINTRODUCES AUTISM INSURANCE HB 4476

Weekly Conference Call Meeting

Minutes from the 12/18/08 Call-In Conference

AIM Committee Call-In Meeting 12/11/08:

AIM Committee Meeting 11.6.08

AIM Committee Meeting 10.30.08

TASK FORCE MEETING UPDATE:

RESULTS OF THE TOWN HALL MTG JULY 9:

ALERT!! TOWN HALL MEETING SCHEDULED FOR WED.

Position Statement on HB 5527, HB 5529, SB 784 & SB 785

ACTION ALERT!!!

IF YOU HAVE BLUE CROSS--SEE THIS INFO ON CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT!

Research Check-offs 957 & 958 PASSED OUT OF SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE!

Senate Finance Hearing TOMORROW!!!

Senate Action Alert

MINUTES AVAILABLE FROM HEARING:

News on the Hearing 5/14/08:

Preparations for Wednesdays Hearing

BREAKING NEWS!!!!! HEARING IN THE SENATE!!!!!

Photo Slideshow of Rally by Cecelia Hammond!

LINK TO PICTURES, PRESS RELEASE HERE:

RALLY A SUCCESS!

RALLY TUESDAY!!!!!!

4 DAYS UNTIL THE RALLY!!!!!!! Speakers Agenda:

8 Days Until the Rally on the Capitol steps 4/22!

House of Reps passes check off bills for research 5528,5526!

RALLY ON THE CAPITOL STEPS, APRIL 22ND!!!!

Senate Passes DOUBLE funding of Combating Autism Act 3/13/08!!

Can you help us? We are looking for help in 2 areas.....

Genessee County News Coverage of Insurance Legislation

PLEASE FORWARD YOUR INSURANCE POLICY'S COVERAGE/EXCLUSIONS FOR AUTISM!

Autism Speaks announces "MICHIGAN" as a KEY battleground in the effort to change Insurance laws!

Don Spencer, Monroe County ISD Superintendent, Gives Full Support!

Article in the Eastern Echo paper
Article from the Ann Arbor News
WWJ Newsradio coverage
Listen to a brief radio clip from EMU news radio
Story from the Monroe News

Article in the Eastern Echo paper
Article from the Ann Arbor News
WWJ Newsradio coverage
Listen to a brief radio clip from EMU news radio
Story from the Monroe News