LANSING, MI – Today, State Rep. Pauline Wendzel introduced legislation to ensure students with medically necessary treatments, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for autism, can receive care at school without missing valuable class time. The bill seeks to remove barriers for families, provide clear guidance for schools, and improve communication among parents, educators, and healthcare providers.

“Parents shouldn’t be forced to choose between their child’s health care and their education,” said Rep. Wendzel. “This bill makes sure students can get the support they need while staying in the classroom, reducing disruptions and keeping every child on track to succeed.”

Under current law, families, schools, and providers face uncertainty about how treatment can be delivered in a school setting. Rep. Wendzel’s legislation establishes clear statewide policies requiring school districts, intermediate school districts, and public school academies to allow students with a prescription, order, or recommendation from a licensed health care professional to receive treatment in the classroom.

“This is about compassion and common sense,” said Rep. Wendzel. “By giving families confidence that their children can access both health care and education in a safe environment, we’re strengthening our schools and giving every Michigan student the opportunity to thrive.”

The legislation has support from ABA service providers, the Autism Alliance of Michigan, and received bipartisan co-sponsorships. 

“For too long, families have been put in the impossible position of choosing between their child’s health care and their education,” said Colleen Allen, President & CEO of the Autism Alliance of Michigan. “Medically necessary interventions like Applied Behavior Analysis are critical to the long-term success of students with autism and other disabilities, and those supports must be integrated into—not excluded from—the school setting. This legislation ensures that students can access the care they require while remaining in class, learning alongside their peers. It is a commonsense, compassionate solution that will improve outcomes for students, reduce long-term costs, and bring Michigan schools into step with other states that have successfully allowed this access for years.”

“This legislation is a vital step forward in ensuring that children with autism across Michigan receive the support they need to succeed in school,” said Margaret Moore, President of the Michigan Behavioral Analysis Providers Association. “By requiring access to Applied Behavior Analysis therapy in educational settings, we are breaking down barriers that too often leave students behind. Families should not have to fight for essential services, and schools should be equipped to provide evidence-based interventions proven to improve outcomes. This bill represents both compassion and common sense, and we are proud to stand with legislators in advancing it.”

House Bill 5044 was introduced today and will be referred to a House committee for further consideration.