LANSING – Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has signed legislation to take $5.5 million from a state autism fund and redirect it to autism programs at universities and for autism-related family assistance services.
The fund was created in 2012 to reimburse health insurance companies for the cost of benefits covering the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders. But insurers haven't filed nearly as many claims as expected.
Western Michigan University will receive $3 million, while Central Michigan and Oakland universities will continue getting $500,000 apiece.
The money will help universities train health workers to assess, diagnose, and provide treatment to people with autism spectrum disorders.
The bill signed Monday also provides $1.5 million for the Autism Alliance of Michigan to provide assistance and resources for families dealing with the disorder.
