California autism center to close 2 locations, lay off 62 

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Temecula, Calif.-based Comprehensive Autism Center will close two locations and lay off a total of 62 employees, according to a WARN notice filed March 25. 

The closures affect sites in Riverside and San Diego counties, effective May 31. The organization currently operates three locations: Riverside, Temecula and San Diego, with the Temecula location remaining open. 

At the Riverside County location, 27 employees will be laid off. San Diego County will lay off 35 employees.

Comprehensive Autism Center was founded in 2008 by Andrea Macken. It provides diagnostic testing and applied behavior analysis therapy for children with autism and developmental delays, including in-home and remote programs for clients up to age 18. 

The closures come as states move to cut Medicaid payments for applied behavior analysis therapy payments as spending continues to spike. North Carolina’s spending rose from $122 million in fiscal 2022 to a projected $639 million in fiscal 2026 — a 423% increase. Nebraska reported a 1,700% increase in spending in recent years, while Indiana saw a 2,800% rise.

Becker’s reached out to Comprehensive Autism Center for comment and will update this story if more information is received.

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