The Oklahoma House of Representatives on March 9 passed legislationrequiring health insurers to cover the treatment of autism for children, The AssociatedPress reported the same day.

The measure was passed in a 76-20 vote. A similar bill was voteddown eight years ago. The current legislation requires a health benefit plan offeredin the state to cover screening, diagnosis and treatment of an autism spectrum disorderin children. The maximum yearly benefit would be $25,000.

Opponents of the measure argued that it would raise premiumsfor other health plans.

The bill must be passed by the state Senate before becoming law.