Coalition’s 12-Year Fight for Autism Insurance Coverage Yields Historic Victory

Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 805 into law, a landmark bill that positions California as the first state to offer comprehensive insurance coverage for a wide range of behavioral health treatments for children with autism. 

The legislation, championed for six years by Senator Anthony Portantino, who represents Pasadena, marks a significant step forward in ensuring access to vital support services for autistic children and their families.

The bill’s passage comes as a relief to many, given the staggering incidence of autism in California, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting a rate of 1 in 22 children affected by the disorder. 

Sponsored by the DIRFloortime Coalition of California, SB 805 is Senator Portantino’s fourth bill in this effort but the first to be signed into law. 

“We are so pleased to finally have legislation that will allow funding for a full range of evidence-based support services for autistic children and youth,” said Dr. Diane Cullinane, a pediatrician in South Pasadena who, along with Dr. Andrea Davis, a psychologist in Pasadena, and Dr. Josh Feder, a psychiatrist in Solana Beach, has been at the forefront of the fight for this legislation for over 12 years.

The Coalition’s leadership has been instrumental in advocating for change. 

Dr. Davis expressed her commitment to the cause, saying, “We will continue to work together as the legislation moves through the regulatory process. The deadline for implementation is July 2026, which seems far away, but at last, we are moving towards real change. We hope this will pave the way for other states to follow.”

Dr. Feder expressed gratitude.

“We are so grateful for the dedication of Sen. Portantino, his staff, our whole coalition of parents and professionals, and the many large groups that supported this effort.”