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Ga. House committee chair says no vote on autism bill
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ATLANTA (AP) — The chairman of a key House committee says a proposal to require insurance coverage of autism therapy won't receive a floor vote this session.

Rep. Richard Smith, a Columbus Republican who chairs the House Insurance Committee, told House members Wednesday that the bill is "bad policy."

Smith says it would primarily affect small businesses and won't get treatment for all children with autism. He also accused Senate leaders of holding up House bills over the autism proposal.

The bill flew through the Senate in January. Leaders in that chamber made the bill a priority this year.

Supporters say at least 40 other states require the coverage.

Smith plans to propose a statewide vote on a state sales tax to fund treatment. He estimates that could raise $200 or $300 million.