The number of Nebraskans receiving public food assistance has continued to decline, with recent figures showing a record drop in monthly participation. In July, about 7,600 fewer Nebraskans were enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) compared to the previous month, with total participation at 116,703 Nebraskans, down from around 150,000 a year ago.
This decline has raised concerns, particularly among advocates for nutrition assistance. Eric Savaiano, manager for food and nutrition access at the nonprofit Nebraska Appleseed, stated that the decline does not mean hunger has been solved. He expressed concern that the decline in participation may be due to various factors, including eligibility changes and stricter work requirements.
Savaiano stated that about 33,000 fewer Nebraskans received public food aid in July compared to July 2025, marking a 22% year-over-year decline. He highlighted that roughly half of this drop involves Nebraska youth and teens under 19, with 13% of the overall annual reduction affecting infants and children under 5.
“Fewer people on SNAP means hungry people, half of which are children, are experiencing more strain and struggle, more trips to limited food pantries and food banks, and more long-term pain for school nutrition programs and educators for the foreseeable future,” Savaiano said.
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New Eligibility Rules Impact
The committee chair, state Sen. Brian Hardin of Gering, questioned Savaiano about accountability measures for individuals receiving public food benefits. The recent decrease in SNAP and other aid programs has been linked to eligibility alterations and tighter work mandates outlined in the 2025 fiscal policy package.
Hardin stated that much of the national debt is related to health issues. He emphasized the need to address health issues to get a handle on the national debt. Hardin said, “And if we don’t get a handle on that national debt, what happens to Nebraska?” Savaiano responded, “Are we doing that on the backs of people who need the support right now?”
Appleseed advocates assert that Nebraska’s falling SNAP enrollment has worsened due to the state’s new eligibility verification rules for all applicants. Savaiano noted that states have flexibility in their verification processes, and Appleseed contends the DHHS tactics are overly burdensome and have deterred some residents needing assistance.
A Nebraska DHHS representative admitted the state’s SNAP participation decline is partially due to intensified verification checks. Jeff Powell, the spokesperson, explained the process was developed following a federal legislation modification requiring states to keep SNAP payment inaccuracies under 6%.
Powell stated that the improved verification steps will uphold program integrity, keep errors under 6%, and safeguard public funds. Nebraska has lessened reliance on the ‘honor system,’ which is vital to staying under the error limit.
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Malnutrition Awareness Week
State Sen. Victor Rountree of Bellevue mentioned at the hearing that Gov. Jim Pillen issued a proclamation naming Sept. 14-18 as Malnutrition Awareness Week. Rountree testified many pantries and food banks are experiencing shortages of healthier options as families increase reliance on private food assistance programs.
Abbie Raikes, a University of Nebraska Medical Center professor, emphasized that proper nutrition during early childhood is vital for brain health. She and other academics noted food scarcity may hinder school preparedness, academic performance, and behavior.
The hearing was attended by only two members of the committee, though it was livestreamed and recorded. Rountree and other speakers highlighted the need for continued support for low-income families and individuals struggling with food insecurity.
Read the original article: https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2026/09/17/drop-in-nebraskans-receiving-public-food-assistance-hastens-drawing-concern-at-hearing/