State Dems take a harder look at stimulus funding

Federal economic stimulus funding gets Democrats' attention at two Capitol hearings on Wednesday.

The first meeting, hosted by U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum, focuses on the effect of stimulus funds on the 4th Congressional District she represents. On tap to testify are organizations representing housing, education, health care and jobs programs in St. Paul and nearby suburbs.

Later, top lawmakers on the Legislative Commission on Planning and Fiscal Policy will look at the state's efforts to track federal stimulus money.

Data from Minnesota Management and Budget shows the state has spent $2.7 billion and committed to spend nearly $1.5 billion more from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.