The Autism Insurance Act Fueled by a Parent's Passion

Reporter: Carrie Jones

LOGAN COUNTY, W.Va.(WSAZ)-- Delegate Ralph Rodighiero plans to take House Bill 4091 to the floor again this legislative session.

For him, the Autism Insurance Act is more than just a bill. It embraces the tools and resources that's helped his autistic son become the 16-year-old he is today.

"He makes straight A's in school, he's in Tao Kwon Do and he played little league. He's just like your average child," said Rodighiero.

Dominic Rodighiero was diagnosed with Autism at age two. His parents started occupational and physical therapies early and they got great results.

Dominic has a job taking tickets at the Cinema 8 in Logan County. He's able to function in social settings and knows he's lucky to have had dedicated parents who could provide the proper care.

"The paychecks and stuff like that doesn't matter. What really matters is how well I do with customers , my friends, my family that's all that matters," said Dominic.

Getting the right care for children with autism comes with a price, that's where the Autism Insurance Act comes in. The purpose of the bill to provide insurance for the detection and treatment of autism.

If the bill passes, the state would shell out about $1.3 Million dollars to handle the cost. Rodighiero says when you break it down for each child it's not that much.

"Less than the price of a happy meal to insure these children, really they need that early in life."

Terri Rodighiero cut back on her work hours to take care of her son and to undergo special training to learn how to deal with his special needs. She knows all too well the sacrifices you sometimes have to make while taking care of an autistic child.

"You're either working all the time to make the money to put into the program or your trying to cut back on your time to spend more time with them reducing your income for therapies."

Dominic's success is exactly why Delegate Rodighiero wants so desperately for this bill to pass.

"If the state puts a little money in right now in the long run these kids can be productive citizens. They can hold jobs. Without this service they can't."

Rodighiero is urging everyone to support House Bill 4091. He says the best way to do it is to voice your concerns with the Governor and your local legislators.

Source: http://www.wsaz.com/news/headlines/39292792.html

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