In this section the following words have the meanings indicated. “Applied behavior analysis” means the design, implementation, and evaluation of environmental modifications using behavioral stimuli and consequences to produce socially significant improvements in human behavior. “Applied behavior analysis” includes the direct observations, measurement, and functional analysis of the relations between environment and behavior. “Autism spectrum disorder” means a group of developmental disorders: Characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts; Characterized by restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities; and Whose symptoms cause clinically significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of current functioning. “Behavior technician” means an individual who: Delivers applied behavior analysis services that are provided to individuals with autism spectrum disorder under the supervision of: A licensed psychologist; A board certified behavior analyst–doctoral; or A board certified behavior analyst; and Meets the requirements for providing behavior analysis services under the Program established by the Department in regulation. “Board certified behavior analyst” means a licensed professional who: Renders and provides direction for applied behavior analysis services that are provided to individuals with autism spectrum disorder; and Has obtained a Board Certified Behavior Analyst certification. “Board certified behavior analyst–doctoral” means a licensed professional who: Renders and provides direction for applied behavior analysis treatments that are provided to individuals with autism spectrum disorder; and Has obtained a Board Certified Behavior Analyst–Doctoral certification. The Department shall provide reimbursement for applied behavior analysis services provided by behavior technicians to Program recipients with autism spectrum disorder. Except as provided under paragraph (3) of this subsection, the Department may not require as a condition of reimbursement under the Program that an individual receive a certification from a credentialing entity recognized by the Department to provide applied behavior analysis services as a behavior technician. The Department may require as a condition of reimbursement under the Program that an individual obtain a current certification issued by a credentialing entity recognized by the Department to provide applied behavior analysis services as a behavior technician within 150 days after the individual begins providing applied behavior analysis services to Program recipients as a behavior technician and maintain the certification. The Department shall adopt regulations necessary to carry out this section.