Nebraska lawmakers weigh responses to new federal SNAP requirements

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Advocates say recent federal changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program could put thousands of Nebraskans at risk of losing food benefits during already unstable periods in their lives.

The changes stem from the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which adds work requirements for some SNAP recipients in order to maintain benefits.

Supporters say the policy promotes long-term independence, while critics argue it may create new barriers for vulnerable residents.

“We’re seeing people suffering because of the changes at the federal level,” Eric Savaiano, Program Manager for Food & Nutrition Access at Nebraska Appleseed, said.

SNAP provides food assistance to thousands of low-income Nebraskans. Under the new federal rules, certain recipients must meet additional work requirements to continue receiving benefits.

Some state lawmakers are exploring ways to offset potential losses for specific groups, including veterans, people who have experienced homelessness, and young adults who have aged out of the foster care system.

Savaiano said administrative hurdles could cause eligible participants to lose coverage.

“In the near future, we are going to see people subject to new work requirements drop off the program, not because they’re not meeting the work requirements, but simply because they are just too overwhelmed to get that paperwork turned in,” he said.

For Robin Nolte, who recently secured housing after about 10 months of homelessness, SNAP benefits were critical.

“When I was homeless, food was the only stability I had, and it was a lifesaver,” she said. “And now, things are much more stable, but it’s still important for me to have the stability of food in my life.”

Ashley Scott, a college student and mother of a 2-year-old daughter, said balancing school, work, and parenting is already difficult. She recently lost her paid internship due to funding cuts.

“I’m currently a student at the University of Nebraska-Kearney, and I have a 2-year-old daughter, and I’m also a working parent,” she said. “Earlier this week, I was laid off of my paid internship because of the lack of funding.”

Supporters of restoring previous SNAP rules say their goal is not to remove accountability but to ensure that people working to rebuild their lives do not lose access to basic food assistance.

“I really hope they hear what we have to say,” Nolte said.

A spokesperson for Gov. Jim Pillen directed questions to a prior release in which Pillen praised the Donald Trump administration for the passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” saying the policy would promote long-term independence and stronger community ties.