Whether your state requires unlimited ABA hours depends on your specific insurance plan and the distinction between fully-insured and self-funded (ERISA) plans. While all fifty states, including North Carolina, Colorado, and Utah, have enacted autism insurance reform laws, these mandates typically apply only to state-regulated, fully-insured plans.

Here is how to determine what applies to your family:

• Fully-Insured Plans: These must follow state-specific mandates. In states like Colorado, state-regulated plans often cover ABA, though some may still have age caps or visit limits depending on local regulations.
• Self-Funded (ERISA) Plans: Many large employer plans are “self-funded” and governed by federal law rather than state mandates. These plans are often exempt from state-level requirements for unlimited hours.
• Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act 2026 Updates: Regardless of state mandates, federal parity laws generally prohibit insurers from applying stricter visit limits or dollar caps on ABA benefits than they do for medical or surgical services. If your plan covers ABA, it must treat those benefits comparably to other medical care.

We provide white-glove service to help you navigate these complexities. Our team can assist with benefits verification to identify your plan type and any applicable visit caps.

Important Disclaimers:

• Insurance coverage varies by plan — verify benefits with your insurer before starting services.
• Results may vary and individual outcomes are not guaranteed.
• Consult your licensed BCBA or healthcare professional for individualized assessment and recommendations.

• Autism Insurance Mandates by State 2026: Complete Guide for Families