FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 19, 2026

COMMISSION APPROVES GRAIN CLAIMS

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Public Service Commission 
approved an order today, May 19, determining claims 
against the $1 million grain dealer security of Hansen-
Mueller Co. 

The order follows a months-long process to identify, 
verify and evaluate claims submitted by Nebraska 
producers after Hansen-Mueller filed for Chapter 11 
bankruptcy protection and ceased operating as a 
licensed grain dealer in the state.

In all, 12 Nebraska producers submitted verified 
claims for unpaid contracts and grain deliveries 
totaling $1,107,868. The Commission collected the 
full $1 million grain dealer bond previously held by 
Hansen-Mueller under its state license and will 
distribute those proceeds on a prorated basis. The 
resulting payments to producers will be 
approximately 90.43 cents per dollar of each 
approved claim.

“This outcome demonstrates the importance of 
Nebraska’s grain dealer regulatory framework,” said 
Commission Vice Chair Kevin Stocker. “While it’s 
unfortunate that not all losses can be fully recovered, 
the process ensured that every valid claim was 
carefully reviewed and that available funds will be 
distributed as fairly and efficiently as possible.”

The Commission opened the claims docket in 
February. Following public notice, affected producers 
and landowners were directed to submit claims and 
supporting documentation for review.

After confirming all known claimants had been 
identified and provided an opportunity to participate, 
the Commission held a public hearing in April. 
Evidence presented included contracts, scale tickets, 
reconciliation sheets and sworn affidavits 
demonstrating compliance with requirements for 
recovery under Nebraska law.

Based on that record, the Commission determined that 
all 12 claims filed with the agency met the requirements 
outlined in state law and are eligible for recovery 
through the grain dealer bond.

The Commission will disburse payments at the 
conclusion of required lien searches and any applicable 
appeal period.

No further official Commission action is expected in 
this docket. Hansen-Mueller’s bankruptcy proceedings 
and any related regulatory matters, however, may 
continue in other jurisdictions.

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Media Contact:
Jason McFarley – Public Information & Education Officer
(402) 430-5640
jason.mcfarley@nebraska.gov