Ohio House Bill 453: Remove Barriers to Autism Care

HB 453:

• Requests that Ohio publish and begin using the new independent auditor development Medicaid reimbursement rates for ABA.
• Clarifies that ABA therapy is a medically necessary treatment for autism, guided by national practice standards.
• Confirms coverage for screening, diagnosis, and treatment of ASD, including ABA, speech, OT, and mental/behavioral health services.

The bill:

• Requires third-party commercial insurers to reimburse ABA providers at no less than 100% of the current Medicaid fee schedule for adaptive behavior assessment and treatment.
• Helps keep providers in-network and reduces out-of-pocket burdens on families.

HB 453:

• Creates a pathway for ‘exam-eligible technicians’—trained direct-care staff who have completed requirements to sit for the national Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) exam.
• Allows these staff to work up to 90 days under the supervision of a certified behavior analyst while finishing certification.
• Helps address workforce shortages, especially in underserved areas, without compromising safety or quality.

The bill:

• Directs the Ohio Department of Medicaid to publish its drafted reimbursement schedule for ABA services for children with autism.
• Gives providers and families clarity on how services are valued and supports long-term planning to serve Medicaid-enrolled children.