It was recently announced that officers with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) searched at least two Minnesota autism centers after investigations revealed “substantial evidence” of fraudulent Medicaid claims.

The FBI conducted searches early Thursday morning at two separate facilities located in downtown Minneapolis and Saint Cloud. The federal search warrant alleges at least twelve people charged in the “Feeding Our Future” scandal owned, received money from, or were tied to the autism centers under investigation. Autism service providers in Minnesota have increased 700% over the last five years, from 41 in 2018 to 328 in 2023.

Senator Michael Kreun (R-Blaine) released the following statement in response:

“When the Feeding Our Future scandal was initially uncovered, it revealed the immediate need for oversight and transparency of organizations that are even partially funded by taxpayer dollars. Today’s news is reason to reiterate that demand. The fraud has been rampant for too long – we are now close to $1 billion in fraud, waste, and abuse under Democrat leadership and yet not a single commissioner or agency has been held accountable.  

“This misuse of funds is a slap in the face to Minnesotans who trust that their taxpayer dollars are being utilized wisely. Even worse is that it was done under the guise of helping those who need it the most – our friends and neighbors with autism. Autism Centers should be a safe haven for those with autism. It is reprehensible that a group of people utilized a good cause as a way to build personal wealth, and they were able to perpetuate this con for so long. 

“Action needs to be taken now.  The Minnesota Department of Human Services must  revoke any active licenses associated with any credible accusation of fraud. We also need legislation that creates independent oversight that will hold these agencies accountable when the Governor does not. Minnesotans are tired of the constant fraud, and they demand transparency and accountability of those in power, and that starts with the Governor and his Commissioners.”