Talent "Finds" $72-Million For Missouri Schools In Washington

There could be some good news for Governor Bob Holden and state lawmakers who are trying to adequately fund education during the state’s budget situation. Senator Jim Talent says he’s discovered a healthy chunk of change for Missouri schools sitting in the U.S. Treasury in Washington – $72-Million, in fact, going back to the 2000 fiscal year – and it is available to the state. Talent points out the money is intended for disadvantaged children, for Special Education, for English Language Acquisition, and for Impact Aid. He says Governor Holden and the Legislature can have the dollars once they formally ask Washington for that money. State Education Commissioner Kent King has responded to Talent’s announcement, saying the State Education Department was aware of the money being held by the U.S. Treasury and has already tapped into most of those dollars. King adds the state intends to go after every remaining dollar being held in Washington.