Welcome to the Autism Michigan petition site for Autism Insurance in Michigan for all. What this petition's main purpose is to allow for a voice for the entire Autism Community to be heard. What we at Autism Michigan are trying to achieve if an insurance mandate is passed in Michigan is to ensure that it will serve all of those that will need such legislation. We want to ensure the following language is added to the bill: "All individuals living with autism spectrum disorder are covered under this bill." We want to ensure there are no age limits imposed. "All interventions and services, deemed medically necessary for individuals with autism spectrum disorder are to be covered with no limitations on cost nor duration." No financial caps for coverage nor limitations imposed on specific types of therapy. "This bill will ensure equal insurance coverage for all individuals living with autism spectrum disorder in Michigan." Autism Michigan is representative of a collaboration voice for the Autism Community in Michigan. A totally volunteer organization, we feel there is a need to allow open communication on this matter and allow voices to heard from across Michigan. We are not opposed to the current legislation that has been introduced, but feel there does need to be a change in the language to ensure this bill meets the needs of all individuals with autism across their lifespan. We are also not connected to any specific autism organization, nor any special interest group or provider agency. This effort is being made to show that specifically so that legislators hear from individuals with autism, family members, community members, etc. Autism Michigan will provide this petition and it's comments to all legislators in both the MI House and the Senate. We do ask however that you personally contact your representatives to let them know your feelings on this very important issue prior to April 25th. Please also join the Autism-Michigan listserve. We just celebrated our tenth year this month and are the biggest support system in Michigan with over 1,900 members strong. http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/Autism-Michigan/ With much respect to all the individuals attempting to pass this very important legislation and with the hope that we can all work together to do so. Autism Michigan A Collaborative Voice of the Autism Community