A sign explaining delays in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program during the federal government shutdown is displayed at a Sprouts grocery store in Bountiful, Utah, on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. (McKenzie Romero/Utah News Dispatch)

LINCOLN — The 43-day federal government shutdown this year left a period of uncertainty for Nebraskans receiving food aid under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, including a failed special session call at the request of some state lawmakers.

Many local communities, churches and nonprofits stepped up during the longest shutdown on record. Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen made clear that Nebraska would not pick up the federal bill, a difference from leaders in some other states who released emergency funds. President Donald Trump also refused to use

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