Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen Reverses Decision, Accepts $18 Million Federal Funding to Feed Hungry Children

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has made a U-turn and decided to accept $18 million in federal funding to support hungry children during the summer break. His reversal comes after intense pressure and a heartening encounter with high school students.

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, who previously declared the state would reject $18 million in federal funding to support hunger relief for children, made a surprising announcement on Monday. (Photo: Toronto Star)

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen Dramatic Turnaround

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, who previously declared the state would reject $18 million in federal funding to support hunger relief for children, made a surprising announcement on Monday. Initially citing his disbelief in welfare, Pillen’s change of heart was a result of growing pressure, including appeals from within his party. The decision follows a poignant encounter with high school students, where they shared their struggles and emphasized the need for assistance during the summer months.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer for Children (Summer EBT) program will get the funding. First implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, this program provides pre-loaded EBT cards to eligible families, including those with children eligible for free and reduced-price school lunches, food assistance, and Medicaid. For three summer months, qualified families will get $40 per child to buy groceries.

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Lawmakers, particularly rural ones, showed that the existing Summer Food Service Program couldn’t satisfy the demands of all food-insecure families, especially in Nebraska’s vast rural areas, influencing Pillen’s decision. Republican Senator Ray Aguilar and Democrat Senator Jen Day prioritized the bill to require the state to accept federal assistance, giving hope for the Legislature’s consideration.

Nebraska’s decision to initially opt out of this federal funding placed it among 15 states, all led by Republican governors, including neighboring Iowa. Governor Kim Reynolds of Iowa criticized the federal food program, but the response to Governor Pillen’s reversal has been largely positive, demonstrating that diverse voices and concerted efforts can bring about meaningful change for the betterment of Nebraska’s communities.

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