In 2025, the Massachusetts legislature passed “An Act regarding Applied Behavioral Analysis for Down syndrome,” which expands access to important behavioral supports for children and families across the state.
Signed into law by Governor Maura Healey in January 2025, the legislation requires both private health insurers and MassHealth to cover in-home Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services for individuals with a primary Down syndrome diagnosis.
Previously, many families were unable to access ABA unless their child also had an autism diagnosis or they could afford to pay privately, creating significant gaps in care and equity. This law removes a longstanding barrier and helps ensure families can access needed supports.
The new coverage requirement took effect on January 1, 2026. You can learn more about this from the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress.
