Currently, one in every 150 children is born with autism spectrum disorder.  Statistics show that with early intervention many children improve to the point where the disorder is virtually unrecognizable and others become productive and self sufficient with little assistance needed later in life.  With the advancement of research, more is known about autism and it is being diagnosed as early as 18 months.  Rep. Allen filed House Bill (HB) 451, which addresses insurance providers that do not traditionally cover children with autism spectrum disorder.  As of 2007, certain insurance providers were finally required to cover children with autism spectrum disorder from ages two to six.  With the passage of HB 451 those insurance providers will be required to cover children with autism spectrum disorder from diagnosis to their tenth birthday.  Addressing the disorder at an early age is crucial to the development of the children affected, and it is also crucial for parents unable to afford the therapies needed.  Additionally, HB 451 expands coverage to teachers with children who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.  Previous legislation did not include educators under the Teacher Retirement System (TRS).