BY

Autism experts, Michigan parents testify at final hearing on insurance reform

WHO: Sen. Randy Richardville, R-Monroe
Sen. Tupac A. Hunter, D-Detroit
Ruth Anan, Ph.D., director, Early Childhood Program at the Center for Human Development, William Beaumont Hospital
David Meador, executive vice president and CFO, DTE Energy, and parent of a child with autism
Lorri Unumb, senior policy advisor and counsel, Autism Speaks

Local parents available for interviews:
Lisa Espinoza, of Portland, mother of a child with autism
Stacie Rulison, of St. Johns, mother of a kindergartener with autism

WHAT: State lawmakers have been gathering information about the financial impact of autism on Michigan families with a series of hearings held throughout the state since May. (The first was held at Eastern Michigan University, the second at the Detroit Medical Center, and the third in Grand Rapids.) Testimony will help lawmakers address the needs of families struggling with this complex condition, which affects one in every 110 children. It’s estimated that autism insurance reform could save state taxpayers $14 billion in lifetime costs for the current population of children with autism, including $3 billion in savings to schools.

WHEN: 1 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 5

WHERE: Room 210, Farnum Building, 123 W. Allegan St., Lansing, MI 48933

WHY: More than 15,000 Michigan children have some form of autism, which affects socialization and learning. Autism creates severe financial hardships for Michigan families struggling to pay for effective, medically proven treatment not covered by insurance. Twenty-three states have enacted autism insurance reform laws that help families get access to care. The Michigan Legislature is considering similar action.

Contact: Sharon Emery, The Rossman Group, 517-896-7075 (c), 517-487-9320 (o)