Talent says state's federal education money goes untouched

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Sen. Jim Talent said Friday that state officials have not tapped $72 million in federal education money earmarked for Missouri in the past few years, and that it's still available.

But state education officials said that, over time, they will make use of the money.

The money, some dating to fiscal 2000, is targeted for particular programs that cover everything from school improvement, such as teachers' salaries, to adult education and programs that help poor or disabled children.

"It's certainly enough to make a difference," Talent said. "It's money that has been there for a while."

Missouri education commissioner Kent King said Friday the state is using the money, but that it draws down chunks at a time as school districts complete projects and apply for the funds. Last month, for example, the state obtained $43 million, he said. In the end, he said, nearly all the money will be used.

Missouri's share

Missouri's share of federal education money for 2004 is $880 million. The legislation that includes education funding has passed the House and awaits expected Senate approval this month.

King said a few dollars from 2000 may have not been spent, but it was a small percentage of the total. Most of the balance is from 2002 and will be used.

Gov. Bob Holden last year held back nearly $200 million in state money from schools because he said the Legislature did not provide enough revenue to cover state expenses. Holden eventually released about $75 million of the withheld money. King said the federal money is program-specific and could not have replaced general state funds.

"What the governor withheld was general education aid that goes to districts and they have the flexibility to spend the way they want," he said. "(The federal funds) could not have been used to offset the general education appropriation that was withheld."

Talent said it's important for legislators and the public to know about the federal money as a new legislative session begins next week, and legislators begin work on a new state budget.

"It is literally difficult to spend all the hundreds of millions of dollars that come in every year from the federal government," Talent said. "As the Legislature convenes, I want people to be aware of the fact that there is federal money there for the asking. I hope it can be useful in getting past this budget year."

Holden spokeswoman Mary Still said Talent's comments had more to do with elections than education.

"This is misleading. It is demagoguery. It's a political stunt," she said. "He's trying to imply there is money sitting there that school districts are not using."

Talent spokesman Rich Chrismer said that's not the case.

"This announcement is not a criticism of state government," he said. "It is good news for state government and Missouri schools and kids."