Senator Gumm Comments on House’s Refusal to Hear “Nick’s Law”

Following is a statement by Senator Jay Paul Gumm, D-Durant, following the announcement by Speaker Benge that the House of Representatives will not hear “Nick’s Law,” a measure that would require health insurance to cover autism diagnosis and treatment:

“It is regrettable the Speaker has closed his door on ‘Nick’s Law’ for this legislative session – without so much as a hearing in what is supposed to be ‘The People’s House.’ For the fourth time this year, House Republican leadership has turned its back on Oklahoma’s children with autism and their families.

“The Speaker’s denial of even a vote on this critical issue begs the question: ‘What are they afraid of?’ The answer simply is this: they know Nick’s Law will pass on a straight ‘up or down’ vote in the House of Representatives.

“Many of us are committed to continuing this fight for thousands of Oklahoma children and their families. They deserve a vote on the floor of the House of Representatives. One man cannot, nor should not, silence the voices of these families, these children and their duly elected representatives.

“This is just another round of what we knew would be a long and difficult fight. These children are worth fighting for. Many of us will continue fighting for them – no matter the odds – even if House Republican leaders are content with turning their back on Oklahoma’s autistic children and their families.”