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Florida could miss out on 4.5 billion dollars from the Federal Government for education. A clause in the federal stimulus package withholds money from states whose education spending has been cut too deeply. Florida’s congressional delegation is working to amend the plan, but as Whitney Ray tells us, education advocates say the state may be missing the bigger picture.

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Education Funding in Florida is at a four year low, and to add insult to injury, the state stands to lose as much as 4.5 billion federal stimulus dollars because education spending is below 2006 levels. Florida TaxWatch says withholding the cash is unfair.

“It’s counterintuitive. We have a stimulus package because states are suffering, but those who have suffered the most and are unable to fund core services don’t get money because they’ve suffered the most and can’t fund core services,” said Rob Weissert a spokesman with Florida TaxWatch

The fight is on to amend the bill so Florida schools could receive all the money.

The Florida Education Association is supporting the efforts but says the fact the money is even in jeopardy should send a message to state lawmakers.

“Maybe the light goes on over the heads of some legislators there and they understand that our constitution says funding a good, high quality system of public education is of paramount importance,” said Mark Pudlow, a spokesman with the Florida Education Association.

But Governor Charlie Crist is quick to defend the legislature.

“Everybody understands that this is a difficult economic time and we’ve had to reduce our spending in Florida by almost 7 billion dollars over the past two years and they’ve tried to do the very best they can in these difficult circumstances,” said Crist.

Should Florida lose the money, the governor is prepared to appeal. Without the 4.5 billion, Florida would still receive 10 billion for schools, roads, and Medicaid.