Nebraska Gov. Pillen Accepts Federal Child Food Funding
After initial rejection, Gov. Jim Pillen reverses his stance on federal child food funding following pressure and a meeting with high school students.
- Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen reverses his decision to reject $18 million in federal funding intended to feed hungry children over the summer.
- The reversal comes after Pillen faced pressure from within his party and met with high school students who shared their experiences with hunger.
- The funding is part of the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer for Children program, which provides $40 per eligible child for three summer months.
- Nebraska was one of 15 states, all with Republican governors, that initially opted out of the program, citing various concerns.
- The decision to accept the funding was announced after a bill in the Nebraska Legislature, supported by bipartisan lawmakers, aimed to mandate the state's participation.