Governor Signs Autism Insurance Bill

SACRAMENTO (CBS) — Governor Jerry Brown has signed into a law a bill that will require health insurance companies in the state to cover treatment for autism and other severe behavioral disorders.

Until now, most health providers have offered limited, if any, coverage for some of the more serious behavioral problems– including autism. Treatment is often cost-prohibitive for many families.

Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg, D-Sacramento, called the coverage "the difference between despair and hope" for many families.

"Thousands of kids are going to get the help they need to lead better lives," said Sen. Darrell Steinberg (D), California, at a rally Sunday in Sacramento, celebrating the signing of the autism bill.

The bill will take effect in July 2012.

Opponents say SB946 will increase health insurance premiums by millions of dollars just as many people and businesses are struggling to afford their insurance coverage during tight times.