(AP) — Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman says he plans to sign a bill that would require some health insurers to offer coverage for autism screenings and therapy.

Heineman will hold a public bill signing on Monday along with autism advocates at the Capitol. Insurance plans under the new law would cover up to 25 hours per week of behavioral health treatment, and insured children would continue to qualify for coverage until they turn 21 years old.

Sen. Colby Coash of Lincoln says he introduced the bill because he has seen the benefits the treatment can provide for children.

Certain insurance plans will be exempt from the autism requirement, including those that are sold in the individual and small group markets under the new federal health care marketplace.