Update on Hansen-Mueller Bankruptcy

LINCOLN – A bankruptcy court has granted a motion related to the grain dealer security bond held by the Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) to help compensate grain producers still owed payment by Omaha-based Hansen-Mueller Co. Such bonds are required under Nebraska law to protect producers when licensed grain dealers fail to meet payment obligations. The grant of the PSC’s motion allows the Commission to move forward to determine valid claims from grain producers awaiting payment.

“The Commission’s priority remains protecting Nebraska grain producers in accordance with Nebraska law.” said PSC Chair Tim Schram, District 3. “This court decision gives us a clear path to use the bond as it was intended.”

The PSC has begun notifying parties who previously had claims with Hansen-Mueller. Nebraska producers or landowners who believe they may be owed payment and have not yet been contacted are encouraged to submit a claim by Feb. 6, 2026. Information on submitting claims, including required documentation, is available on the PSC Grain Department homepage: https://psc.nebraska.gov/grain.

PSC staff will review affidavits and supporting grain claim documents submitted by the deadline. The Commission will then decide on further action at an upcoming hearing. “We urge every Nebraska grain producer or landowner who believes they may have an unpaid claim to file it with the Commission right away so we can move forward efficiently and get assistance to those who need it.” said Terri Fritz, director of the PSC’s Grain Department. “We’ll continue working through the process and keeping everyone who submits a claim informed every step of the way.”

Hansen-Mueller filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November 2025. The company’s PSC-issued grain dealer license expired Jan. 1 and was not renewed. Previously, and in response to complaints received, the PSC:
• opened a formal complaint on Oct. 24, 2025;
• suspended the company’s grain dealer license;
• required proof of a line of credit sufficient to cover obligations, which was submitted by the company on Oct. 30, 2025; and
• through a stipulated agreement approved Nov. 4, 2025, required Hansen-Mueller
to make payment to Nebraska producers known to be owed at the time.