Lt. Gov. Brian Calley wasnt shy about his first-hand experience in raising a child with autism.
His 6-year-old daughter Reagan has dealt with the disorder, giving Calleys family much insight how difficult diagnosis and treatment is for autism.
We knew as her parents that something was different and we didnt know what it was, he said.
Calley spoke to about 50 people at the Mid-Michigan Childrens Museum in Saginaw recently about new state legislation that forces insurance companies in Michigan to cover treatment.
The autism insurance reform, which was signed in April 2012, became effective on Oct. 15, 2012.
Calley said more than 15,000 children in Michigan are currently diagnosed with autism and will have access to evidence-based treatment.
He expects the treatments to save the state billions because treatment can restore typical function in 50 percent of those with autism.
Speaking from experience, he said it can be difficult to expect anything positive from the difficulties that come with raising a child with autism. But effective treatment offers hope, he said.
Fighting low expectations is very, very difficult yet the potential is so remarkable, he said.
Although it has been several months since the reform became effective, there are still pitfalls to overcome. Those who can diagnose children with autism have long wait lists. There are only about 40 behavioral psychiatrists in the state.
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Lt. Gov. Calley talks about autism reform in state