Expanding Access to ABA Therapy: ABC’s Advocacy Efforts & Breaking Industry News

At Action Behavior Centers (ABC), we believe every child with autism deserves access to high-quality applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA therapy can be life-changing for children on the spectrum and help them build communication, daily living, and social skills. However, without meaningful access to early intervention, too many children with autism are left without the chance to reach those developmental milestones.

To accomplish this goal, we’re working tirelessly to expand and protect Medicaid coverage in Texas, Colorado, and Arizona so families can access the support they need. Our advocacy efforts are focused on increasing accessibility, educating policymakers, and working with providers to bring ABA therapy to more communities. We're proud to stand alongside other advocates and parents in the fight for change.

Advocating for Medicaid expansion in Texas

In Texas, Medicaid coverage for ABA therapy remains limited, which leaves many families struggling to access vital early intervention services. At ABC, we’re committed to changing that. Our expert team is actively engaging with state leaders, insurance providers, and advocacy organizations to push for meaningful  Medicaid coverage and adequate reimbursement rates.

Dr. Bryan Davey, a BCBA-D and Vice President of Public Policy leader at Action Behavior Centers, recently testified before the Texas House Committee and Texas Senate on Appropriations in support of a meaningful autism Medicaid benefit. He was joined by Veronica Figueroa, a BCBA and Senior Vice President at Action Behavior Centers for the Houston and Chicago regions; Anna Sciarillo of the TxABA Public Policy Group; Jacquie Benestante of the Autism Society of Texas; and several parents of children with autism.

Currently, most ABA providers cannot participate in Texas Medicaid due to inadequate reimbursement rates. As Bryan explains:

“Despite network inadequacies, the rates remain insufficient, leading to low provider participation and, therefore, low utilization of the benefit by Texas families. Without access to ABA, the majority of children with autism spectrum disorder will manifest an enduring dependency on special education and adult developmental disability services. Research shows that among children with ASD who have not received ABA, 81% will require intensive special education and adult services.”

To change this trajectory, advocates like those at ABC are calling for a $21 million investment from the state of Texas to raise reimbursement rates. This modest increase would dramatically improve access and help more children reach their goals while reducing the state's long-term costs.

Veronica Figueroa adds: 

“Early intervention through applied behavior analysis therapy can make a world of difference in the lives of children with autism. Children who receive ABA therapy are more likely to attend their preferred schools without extra support, gain greater independence, and eventually join the workforce—leading to less reliance on state services.

Unfortunately, thousands of children in Texas with autism are unable to access this life-changing therapy, which means they miss out on these incredible benefits. This not only affects their quality of life but also impacts their families and leads to higher long-term costs for the state.

To ensure that more children can experience the positive impact of ABA therapy, a modest investment is necessary. By dedicating an additional $21 million over the biennium, the state can help ensure that children covered by Texas Medicaid have access to these essential services, giving them the best chance to thrive.”

Breaking news in ABA: Massachusetts expands therapy access

While our advocacy is centered in Texas, Colorado, and Arizona, we're also celebrating important progress in other states. In Massachusetts, a major legislative win just expanded access to ABA therapy for individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC), Governor Maura Healey signed a bill into law that ensures ABA therapy is no longer limited to individuals with autism alone. This is a huge step forward in recognizing the broader impact ABA therapy can have.

This law sets an important precedent, showing that ABA can effectively support individuals with a variety of developmental needs, not just those on the autism spectrum. It's a powerful reminder of how advocacy can create lasting change.

What’s next for ABA?

The momentum is growing—not just in Massachusetts and Texas but across the country. Advocacy organizations and providers are continuing to push to protect and expand Medicaid coverage for ABA therapy, increase funding for early intervention programs, and implement better insurance policies that support long-term ABA services.

At Action Behavior Centers, we’re committed to this national movement. This past year, ABC developed our Family Advocacy team, led by Jonna Long.  The FA team is fully dedicated to helping families navigate care, access resources, and make their voices heard. During their recent team retreat in Austin, our advocates deepened their knowledge of public policy and compliance, shared new ideas for outreach, and volunteered at a local food bank.

Join us in putting advocacy into action! Whether you contact your local representatives, share your story, or spread awareness in your community, your voice matters. Together, we can help more children reach milestone moments and build a strong foundation for the future.

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