Gov. Deal signs autism insurance bill for kids

ATLANTA (AP) Gov. Nathan Deal has signed into law a House-Senate bill that includes an insurance coverage requirement for autism known as Ava's Law in honor of Ava Bullard of Lyons, a 10-year-old with the disorder.

To the roar of a crowd of legislators, parents and children with autism, Deal signed HB 429 Wednesday, saying it's one of the most important pieces of legislation he's signed as governor.

HB 429 also provides protection for patients diagnosed with terminal illnesses by prohibiting insurance carriers from dropping coverage or declining treatment.

The joint bill calls for children 8 and under to be covered for up to $30,000 of therapy annually.