Schaumburg teen's dental visit changes state law

The dental difficulties of a Schaumburg teenager with autism has led to a change in state law.

Gov. Bruce Rauner Sunday signed legislation that requires insurance policies to cover sedation for otherwise routine dental work for children diagnosed with autism and developmental disabilities.

The idea came from Mike Baker of Schaumburg after his son, Bryan, had a tough time at the dentist last year.

During otherwise routine dental work, Bryan, who has been diagnosed with autism, had to be sedated because he had trouble communicating with the dentist.

Baker's bill for the visit was large because many plans only covered sedation for patients up to age 6. So Baker asked local lawmakers to address the issue. State Rep. Laura Fine, a Glenview Democrat, took it up.

With Rauner's signature, new plans will cover dental sedation for autistic patients until age 19. The law takes effect Jan. 1.

“I hope it affects a lot of people,” Baker said.

Rauner's signature over the weekend didn't come with an official message, but Baker said in May he was thankful lawmakers and advocates decided to take up the idea.

“Everyone talked about obstacles,” Baker said. “But I said, 'The heck with it.'”