Nebraska Sees Significant Decline in SNAP Participation Following Federal Tax and Spending Cuts
The number of Nebraskans receiving public food aid through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has decreased by nearly 17% since July of the previous year. This decline, amounting to about 25,000 individuals, coincides with the implementation of a significant federal tax and spending cuts package approved by Congress in 2025. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reports that the sharpest monthly drop occurred between May and June, with nearly 6,000 fewer participants. Advocacy groups attribute this decline to stricter state verification processes and eligibility changes mandated by the new federal law. These changes have reportedly made it more challenging for individuals, including refugees, veterans, and those recently aged out of foster care, to access food assistance. The DHHS maintains that its verification practices comply with federal guidelines and are designed to ensure accurate eligibility determinations.