AGP Executive Report

SNAP Legal Fight: A federal judge blocked SNAP food restriction waivers in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee and West Virginia, saying USDA overstepped by using demonstration authority to change what SNAP can buy—an issue Congress, not the executive branch, must set. Medicaid & Mental Health: Nebraska mental health providers report a surge in calls from Medicaid recipients after new work requirements took effect early, leaving people scrambling for coverage and meals. Heat Safety: Omaha health officials urged residents to prepare for an upcoming heat wave tied to Fourth of July plans, warning about dehydration, heat illness risks, and who’s most vulnerable. Nursing Pipeline: Bellevue University launched an accelerated RN-to-BSN program aimed at helping working nurses earn bachelor’s degrees faster amid Nebraska’s ongoing nursing shortage. Public Health & Food: Scientists say fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi may support gut health and metabolism, though researchers note more study is needed. Local Care Access: Regional West Physicians Clinic-Orthopaedics welcomed nurse practitioner Kimberly Perkins, expanding orthopaedic care capacity. Quarantine Update: A Bend doctor released from hantavirus quarantine after caring for patients on an infected cruise ship. Drug Policy Watch: A proposed nitrous oxide sales limit targets recreational misuse that can harm teens and drivers.

Medicaid Work Rules: Nebraska mental health providers say new Medicaid work requirements have triggered a surge in calls, as recipients scramble to meet 80 hours a month and fear losing coverage amid complex conditions like dual diagnosis. SNAP “Junk Food” Fight: A federal judge blocked SNAP waivers in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee and West Virginia that would have limited purchases of soda and candy, saying USDA overstepped authority. Heat Safety: A heat advisory covers parts of Nebraska and South Dakota with heat index values near 104; officials urge hydration, shade, and never leaving kids or pets in cars. Rural Dialysis Closures: Reporters highlight the closure of rural dialysis clinics, raising concerns about access to ongoing care. Gut Health Trend: Scientists point to fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi as potential helpers for gut health and metabolism, while noting more research is needed. Nursing Pipeline: Bellevue University launched an accelerated RN-to-BSN program to help address Nebraska’s nursing shortage while keeping working nurses in the workforce. Local Care & Wellness: Omaha students and health leaders are spotlighting practical wellbeing efforts—from memory-care room “flower medicine” to heat-illness preparedness.

SNAP Legal Fight: A federal judge blocked USDA SNAP waivers in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee and West Virginia that would have limited purchases of soda and candy, saying the agency overstepped its authority. Local Health Preparedness: Omaha health officials urged residents to get ready for a coming heat wave, warning about dehydration and heat illness risk for seniors, kids, and people without air conditioning. Nursing Pipeline: Bellevue University launched a reduced-credit, fully online RN-to-BSN program aimed at helping working nurses advance amid Nebraska’s ongoing staffing shortage. Student Housing Overhaul: UNL’s Board of Regents approved a $386 million redevelopment of Selleck Quadrangle, replacing aging residence halls and adding housing for up to 1,800 students. Corrections & Wellness: Correctional leaders met on Capitol Hill pushing for stronger drone and cell phone contraband interdiction, officer wellness, and reentry funding. Health Equity Spotlight: A Nebraska-linked profile highlighted Daniel Dawes’ work on the political determinants of health and health disparities. Public Safety: Emergency physicians reminded Nebraskans to use extra caution with Fourth of July fireworks, citing common ER injuries to hands, faces and eyes.

SNAP Court Fight: A federal judge blocked USDA waivers that would have limited Nebraska and other states from restricting what people can buy with SNAP, saying the agency overstepped its authority—leaving soda and candy limits in limbo while states watch for appeals. SNAP Cost-Sharing Watch: New USDA data shows Nebraska’s SNAP payment error rate at 5.9%, just under the 6% threshold that could trigger state cost-sharing starting in 2027, a reminder that administrative accuracy could affect budgets and services. Volunteer Firefighting Strain in Nebraska: Nebraska’s volunteer fire departments are under year-round pressure as fires grow and fewer people can serve; the state relies on thousands of unpaid firefighters and mutual aid to keep up. Community Health Access in Omaha: The Black Family Health and Wellness Association held a North Omaha community night to connect underinsured and uninsured residents with healthcare options, while seeking volunteers for CPR and first aid. Medical Research in Nebraska: UNMC-linked research highlights how pathogen virulence can better predict outcomes in post-procedure endophthalmitis than visual acuity alone. Public Health Education: A Nebraska nursing program news item points to strong NCLEX first-time pass rates, underscoring workforce readiness for RN licensure.

SNAP Health Fight in Nebraska: A federal judge blocked West Virginia’s SNAP waiver that would have barred soda purchases, and the ruling also halts similar soda-and-candy restrictions in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee and West Virginia—leaving the bans in limbo while USDA decides next steps. SNAP Integrity Costs: New USDA data shows many states face payment error rates that could trigger major cost-sharing penalties starting in 2027, with Nebraska listed among states near the threshold. Local Care Access: Omaha’s new Blueprint Access Center in North Omaha is part of a statewide push to connect families to direct services, not “Band-Aid” fixes. Cardiac Arrest Survival: A Lincoln man credited a bystander’s CPR with saving his life after sudden cardiac arrest, highlighting the impact of immediate action. Public Health Watch: CDC ended its hantavirus response after Americans quarantined following a cruise outbreak completed monitoring without symptoms. Nebraska Research: UNL researchers report fathers may play an outsized role in teen vaping and smoking habits, pointing to family-focused prevention.

SNAP Rules in Nebraska: A federal judge blocked West Virginia’s waiver that would have barred SNAP purchases of soda, and the ruling also halts similar USDA-approved restrictions in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee and West Virginia—meaning the Aug. 1 soda ban in Nebraska won’t take effect. SNAP Integrity Watch: A House hearing spotlighted waste, fraud and abuse in SNAP, including concerns about EBT skimming and retailer misuse. State Budget Pressure: New USDA data on SNAP payment error rates shows many states may face 5% to 15% cost-sharing starting in 2027, raising stakes for eligibility accuracy. Health Tech & Privacy: MCNA Dental reached a multimillion-dollar settlement tied to a 2023 LockBit ransomware attack that exposed nearly 9 million people. Care at Home: Lincoln families can turn to Comfort Keepers for help with daily living tasks like bathing, meals and light housekeeping. Public Health: The Nebraska Poison Center urged summer safety tips, from fireworks burns to carbon monoxide risks from grills and generators. Marijuana Policy: A DEA judge set a schedule for a cannabis rescheduling hearing, with Nebraska listed among participating states.

SNAP Food Rules Hit Court Roadblock in Nebraska: A federal judge blocked USDA-approved waivers that would have let states like Nebraska restrict SNAP purchases of soda, candy and other “unhealthy” foods, saying the agency exceeded its authority and can’t rewrite Congress’s definition of “food.” Medicaid Work Requirements Start in Nebraska: Nebraska is the first state to enforce new federal Medicaid work requirements, with other states following and full enforcement nationwide in 2027—raising concerns that paperwork confusion, not lack of work, could drive coverage losses. Hantavirus Monitoring Ends After Cruise Outbreak: CDC wound down its response to the Andes hantavirus outbreak tied to the MV Hondius; all U.S. people potentially exposed completed 42-day monitoring at UNMC in Omaha with no U.S. cases reported. Nebraska Health Care Fraud Takedown: DOJ charged four people in Nebraska as part of a national Medicare/Medicaid fraud sweep, alleging more than $975,000 in overpayments tied to claims for services not rendered and other billing schemes. Early Childhood Educator Well-Being Program: CHIME is expanding mindfulness and social-emotional support for Head Start and Early Head Start educators, aiming to reduce stress and improve classroom relationships.

SNAP Junk-Food Limits Blocked: A federal judge ruled the USDA can’t approve state waivers that would restrict SNAP purchases of soda and candy in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee and West Virginia, saying the agency exceeded its authority. Nebraska Medicine Governance: The NU Board of Regents will meet June 29 to follow up on a resolution shifting Nebraska Medicine’s governing structure after Clarkson Regional Health Services withdraws; the Omaha Community Foundation will hold half the voting directors from July 1 through Oct. 1. Hantavirus Response Ends: The U.S. ended its hantavirus monitoring and quarantine response tied to a cruise-ship outbreak; all 18 Nebraska-area monitored passengers have returned home and CDC’s response is concluding. UNMC Research on IBD: UNMC-linked researchers report progress using blood proteomics to identify pediatric inflammatory bowel disease risk, aiming to reduce delays and invasive testing. Local Health & Safety: A crash near Hickman injured four people, and the South Fork Fire is fully contained at 39,696 acres as crews continue repairs and assess flood risk. Healthcare Fraud Crackdown: DOJ announced a nationwide health care fraud takedown charging 455 defendants tied to more than $6.5 billion in alleged false claims.

SNAP “junk food” bans blocked: A federal judge ruled the USDA can’t approve waivers letting states bar SNAP purchases of soda, energy drinks, and candy, striking down Nebraska’s pilot and similar limits in Colorado, Iowa, Tennessee, and West Virginia—an immediate win for households worried about food access and for advocates arguing the changes violate federal law. Hantavirus quarantine ends in Nebraska: Nebraska officials marked the end of a six-week quarantine for 18 cruise passengers exposed to hantavirus at UNMC; all cleared and returned home, with leaders citing strong coordination and no related U.S. cases. Blood supply push: LifeServe Blood Center’s Blood Donor Days campaign is working to boost donations after early-summer shortages, as demand rises and school-based giving slows. Water testing after wildfires: UNMC is partnering with Central Nebraska health departments to survey residents and offer free well water quality testing for possible wildfire-related impacts. Extreme heat warning: A federal heat risk map flags dangerous triple-digit heat index chances across much of the country, raising health risks for outdoor workers and vulnerable residents. Healthcare fraud crackdown: DOJ announced charges in a nationwide health care fraud and opioid-related takedown, including a Nebraska Medicaid case tied to billed-but-unperformed mental health counseling.

SNAP “junk food” fight: A federal judge (Amy Berman Jackson) blocked the Trump administration’s push to let states restrict food stamp purchases of soda, energy drinks, and candy, saying USDA lacked authority to change SNAP’s federal definition of “food”—a ruling that hits Nebraska and four other states. Nebraska public health: Nebraska confirmed its first human West Nile virus case of the 2026 season, urging mosquito-prevention steps like repellent, long sleeves, and removing standing water. Hantavirus update: UNMC said the last group of Americans monitored after exposure on the M/V Hondius has completed the quarantine period and returned home healthy, with no cases emerging. Maternal health collaboration: Region 7 Maternal Health ECHO launched across Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas to strengthen cross-state care coordination and resource sharing. Medicaid pressure: RAND projects Medicaid funding cuts under a major federal overhaul, with 26 states facing reductions of 5% or more. Nebraska cannabis rollout: The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission cleared the way for the first licensed cultivator to plant marijuana, while another cultivator faces a zoning delay. Livestock health: Nebraska and regional officials warned about rabies risk in cattle tied to infected skunks.

SNAP Court Win: A federal judge blocked USDA-approved SNAP “food restriction” waivers in Nebraska and four other states, ruling the agency exceeded its authority by restricting purchases of soda, candy and other sugary items. Hantavirus Update: Nebraska’s UNMC said the 42-day quarantine for the last exposed M/V Hondius passengers has ended, with no sustained hantavirus transmission found in the U.S. West Nile in Nebraska: DHHS confirmed the state’s first human West Nile virus case of 2026 and urged mosquito-bite prevention (DEET, long sleeves, dawn/dusk caution, and draining standing water). Marijuana Rollout: The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission approved the first state-licensed cultivator to plant, while another operator challenged a zoning decision. Parkinson’s Trends: CDC data show Parkinson’s death rates among adults 65+ declined in 2024 after rising earlier in the decade, with higher rates in men and in several states including Nebraska. Local Health & Care: UNMC/UNL partnership moves into a new shared national recognition structure, and Banner Health named a new CEO for Banner Casa Grande Medical Center.

Hantavirus Update (Nebraska): The last eight Americans held in Omaha’s National Quarantine Unit after exposure to a cruise-ship hantavirus outbreak have left the facility, with U.S. health officials confirming the quarantine is over. Public Health Watch: Researchers are also scrutinizing where the Andes hantavirus likely originated, with new reporting suggesting the source may be a border region rather than a specific landfill—an update that could affect how long exposed people are monitored. Cybersecurity & Health Infrastructure: Nebraska wrapped up Cyber Tatanka 2026, a two-week exercise testing defenses for critical infrastructure, bringing together federal, state, military and private partners. Measles Risk: The CDC reported 2,104 confirmed measles cases across 41 jurisdictions in 2026, raising concerns about whether the U.S. can maintain elimination status. Local Health & Safety: Nebraska Extension says early tar spot in corn has been found at low levels in several counties and advises against fungicide treatment yet. Education Costs: The University of Nebraska Board of Regents approved a 4.25% tuition increase systemwide, with $8 million in spending cuts planned. Agriculture & Drought: A historic drought is forcing ranchers in Johnson County to sell part of their herds early due to lack of grass.

Hantavirus Update (Nebraska): Federal officials ended the quarantine for 18 Americans exposed on a cruise ship after a deadly hantavirus outbreak; six had been held at UNMC’s National Quarantine Unit in Omaha for the full 42 days, and no U.S. cases linked to the outbreak were confirmed as of Thursday. Public Health (Nebraska): West Nile virus has been confirmed in Nebraska after mosquito pool testing, with no human cases reported so far this season. Medicaid Rules (National, with Nebraska impact): CMS issued final rules for Medicaid work requirements, spelling out what millions of enrollees must do to keep coverage—job training, volunteering, or education—starting Jan. 1, 2027. Food Assistance (National): A House reconciliation plan would cut SNAP by about 30% through 2034, threatening food security for millions as grocery prices stay high. Caregiving Support (Multi-state, includes Nebraska): AARP and United Way expanded the 211 Caregiver Support Program into 10 more states and regional California/Colorado, boosting access for family caregivers. NU Tuition (Nebraska): The NU Board of Regents approved a 4.25% systemwide tuition increase to help offset inflation-related costs. Cat Health Tips (Nebraska): A local guide urges cat owners to separate litter from food and water to reduce stress and support healthier habits. Food Safety (Walmart recall): FDA flagged a Great Value Hawaiian Roll 4-pack recall distributed in 26 states after an oily/sticky substance was found on packaging surfaces; no injuries reported. Trans Health Legal Fight (National): The FTC and multiple state attorneys general, including Nebraska, sued WPATH over alleged misleading claims about youth transgender medical treatments.

West Nile Virus: Nebraska health officials confirmed West Nile Virus in mosquito pools, with no human cases reported so far this season; officials note most infected people don’t feel sick, but some can develop fever, body aches, or rash. Marijuana Policy Hearing: The DEA is holding a June 29 rescheduling hearing that critics say excludes cannabis consumers, patients, and state-licensed businesses, raising concerns about how federal cannabis rules could affect taxation, banking, and operations. Trans Healthcare Lawsuit: The FTC and several state attorneys general, including Nebraska, sued WPATH over alleged misleading claims about safety and benefits of gender-transition treatments for minors, a case that could reshape how families and clinicians view guidance. Medicaid Work Requirements: CMS issued final rules for Medicaid work requirements, spelling out what millions of enrollees must do to keep coverage starting in 2027. Local Public Health Tech: Cities and schools are testing wastewater for illicit drugs, aiming to spot outbreaks of substance use early and help reduce overdoses. Omaha Violence: Omaha police investigated overnight shootings that sent victims to Nebraska Medicine, including one woman who later died. Pet Care: Nebraska Humane Society shared tips for a stress-free cat setup, emphasizing litter box placement and keeping food and water separate.

Shooting Update (Omaha): Omaha police say a woman taken to Nebraska Medicine after an early Saturday shooting has died; a 16-year-old boy was also found nearby and is expected to survive. Medicaid Watch (Nebraska): New HHS Medicaid spending data show Grand Island providers billed $260,313 for pathology and lab services in 2024 (up 8.8%), while Papillion saw $68,458 for medical and surgical supplies (up 614.1%) and Lincoln logged $948,824 for temporary national codes (non-Medicare) (up 14.8%). Trans Health Legal Fight: The FTC and Nebraska joined other states in suing WPATH over alleged deceptive claims about pediatric transition-related care. Caregiver Support: AARP and United Way expand the 211 Caregiver Support Program into 10 more states plus regional help in California and Colorado, bringing coverage to 32 states and Puerto Rico. Air Quality Research: University of Iowa researchers report wildfires are worsening surface ozone pollution across the Midwest, reversing earlier gains. Local Health Access: Cass Health in Atlantic announced podiatrist Kalli Rush, DPM, is now seeing patients and will perform surgeries.

Medicaid Spending Watch: Grand Island Medicaid bills for pathology and lab procedures rose to $260,313 in 2024, up 8.8% from 2023, while Papillion saw a sharp jump in medical and surgical supplies spending to $68,458 (+614.1%). Local Health Policy: Lincoln Medicaid claims for temporary national codes (non-Medicare) climbed to $948,824 in 2024 (+14.8%). Trans Health Legal Fight: The FTC and Nebraska joined Alaska, Iowa and Texas in a federal lawsuit accusing WPATH of misleading parents about pediatric transition-related care. Care Access Expansion: AARP and United Way expanded the 211 Caregiver Support Program into 10 more states, including Nebraska, aiming to reach millions more family caregivers. Public Health & Environment: University of Iowa researchers say wildfire emissions are worsening surface ozone across the Midwest, reversing years of air-quality gains. Animal Health: Nebraska Humane Society announced an $8M Omaha-area Pet Wellness Center to expand low-cost vet services, targeting completion in mid-2027.