Florida slow to spend federal stimulus cash

[Freddie Stubbs]

WASHINGTON — Florida agencies have spent only about 40 percent of their share of federal stimulus money, a slow flow of funds that has made a limited impact on the state's dire job market.

Cities, counties, universities and some other recipients in the state have used only about one-fifth of their share. In all, about $5.7 billion of stimulus grants awarded to Florida has yet to be spent.

The money, approved by Congress in early 2009, was supposed to be spent quickly to jump-start economic growth. Eighteen months later, as Floridians face a Labor Day weekend with an unemployment rate in double digits, many are wondering when the billions of dollars allotted to the state will generate new jobs.

An air-conditioner-rebate program, which was launched last week, exemplifies the tepid pace of spending. The rebate program will aid 10,000 Florida households and promote energy efficiency, but it offers practically nothing to help the unemployed.

more: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/politics/os-jobs-stimulus-rebates-recovery-20100905,0,4353075.story