Supporters of a
California autism insurance mandate will rally in the state's capital tomorrow.
A release from California State Senator Darrell Steinberg:
(SACRAMENTO) Parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and leading advocates will join Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) at a press conference and rally in Sacramento on Monday, September 26th, to urge Governor Brown to sign SB 946, legislation which requires private health plans and insurance companies to provide coverage of behavioral health treatment for individuals with autism.
Parents and advocates from Sacramento and throughout the state will fill the crowd with pictures of their children and signs calling on the Governor to stand with families and sign the bill. Parents will share their personal stories of being denied insurance coverage for medically necessary treatment and how SB 946 will end the discriminatory practice.
The rally will include an inspiring performance by talented musicians who are on the autism spectrum. Family support groups from around the state will have information tables set up for families looking for assistance.
Details:
- When: Noon, Monday September 26th, 2011
- Where: West Steps of the Capitol
Speakers:
- Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento)
- Areva Martin, parent of a son with ASD and President of the Special Needs Network
- Feda Almaliti, parent of a young son with ASD and Executive Director of Autism Health Advocates
- Joan Schmidt, parent of an adult son with ASD and CEO of Creative Living Options which provides independent living support
- Ruben Ramirez, father of young child with ASD and member of Fiesta Educativa, an organization dedicated to assisting Latino families with special needs children (remarks given in Spanish)
- Kristin Jacobson, Founding Member Alliance of California Autism Organizations and President Autism Deserves Equal Coverage
- Shelley Hendrix, parent of a teenage son with ASD, Director Grass Roots Development, National Autism Speaks
- John Matthias, parent of a child with ASD, Regional Advocacy Chair Autism Speaks, and Founding Member of the Alliance of California Autism Organizations
- Marty Omoto, Director of the California Disability Community Action Network
