Governor Dave Heineman tells KLIN’s Jack and John that he’s concerned that the state may have to spend $30 million dollars to qualify for $59 million in new federal stimulus money for teacher salaries. Governor Heineman says that the federal government should not be dictating that they need to spend more money to get more money. Governor Heineman says that for Nebraska to benefit from it, they need to be able to use it in the next fiscal year.
Governor Heineman says that they are seeking clarification.
The federal stimulus money is part of a $26 billion aid package passed by the House Tuesday that would also offer some Medicaid relief.
The Nebraska State Education Association is urging the governor to apply for the additional funding..even if it does mean coming up with the extra thirty million dollars. Representatives says they’re concerned that without the federal subsidy schools in Nebraska may have to lay off teachers or increase class sizes.
