We are seeking information on whether or how much the specific language of the amendment to H.R. 2647 replicates the provisions specified in the previously submitted HR 1600: To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the treatment of autism under TRICARE. (Introduced in House -Rep. Stesak + 20 Co-sponsors).
The proposal still needs approval by the U.S. Senate.
The story reported from 6/25/09 Newsblaze [with links added]
House Passes Congressman Sestak`s Historic Autism Legislation
" Today, the House voted to pass legislation authored by Congressman Joe Sestak (PA-07) to mandate the treatment of autistic children of service personnel under the military's healthcare program (TRICARE). The legislation, which was included as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act [H.R. 2647: To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2010 for military activities of the Department of Defense, to prescribe military personnel strengths for fiscal year 2010, and for other purposes. ] , is the successful culmination of a two year effort led by Congressman Sestak to provide treatment for the 13,000 autistic children of military personnel and will serve as a model for similar federal and state efforts.FULL ARTICLE describes current coverage and the improvements from Rep. Sestak's amendment.
"With this bill's passage, we have supported the critical needs of many military families and addressed the growing epidemic of autism among children of both military and civilian families. It is unacceptable that 1 in 84 military families are reported to have a child with autism, but receive less than 16 of the 25 minimum recommended hours of therapy," said Congressman Sestak, a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the highest ranking Veteran in Congress.
Under current law, the military's Extended Care Health Option provides limited coverage to military families afflicted by autism. Only five percent of eligible military children receive care because of excessive delays- as long as two year waiting periods- and arbitrary coverage denials..."
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Other articles:
House Bill Mandates Autism Coverage For Military
By Michelle Diament
Disability Scoop
June 26, 2009
Congressman Sestak Includes Key Provisions in National Defense Authorization Act
June 20,2009
NewsBlaze
Monday, June 8, 2009 Blogpost
NEWS: Federal S. 1169 joins H.R. 1600 to provide for the treatment of autism under TRICARE
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