JACKSON – Commissioner Andy Gipson and the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) want to make sure all Mississippi farmers and producers are aware that the Hansen-Mueller Company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Nebraska.
Although Hansen-Mueller does not have an office in Mississippi, it is licensed as a grain dealer in this state and is subject to our laws with regard to transactions in Mississippi.
Gipson strongly advises farmers who have not received payment from Hansen-Mueller to contact an attorney immediately to protect their legal rights. Additionally, forward any unpaid invoices, bills, contracts or other documents with evidence supporting a claim that Hansen-Mueller has not paid for grain deliveries in Mississippi to MDAC by emailing the documents to grainclaims@mdac.ms.gov.
“In previous conversations, Hansen-Mueller officials represented to me that the company was in the process of being sold, and our farmers would get paid for grain deliveries. Subsequent to those conversations, Hansen-Mueller, without notice to us, filed for bankruptcy. Accordingly, the path forward for being paid is unclear, so farmers need to consult an attorney. Hansen-Mueller needs to step up immediately and meet every outstanding obligation owed to our farmers. We are actively monitoring the case and advocating for our farmers,” said Gipson.
To the extent authorized by law, MDAC will seek to collect on the bond filed by Hansen-Mueller and/or take regulatory action against the grain dealer license of Hansen-Mueller. Farmers needing more information can call 601-359-1144.
