Stimulus Hasn't Reached States That Need It Most

The states President Obama’s $787 billion stimulus package was most intended to help aren’t yet getting much out of it, USA Today reports after analyzing government contracts. The eight states with unemployment rates higher than 10% have seen an average of $7.42 per person from the $4 billion dispersed so far; the US average is about $13. Michigan, with the highest unemployment rate, has gotten 21¢ per person.

Oregon, another state with high unemployment, has seen $2.12 per person. Meanwhile, North Dakota, with the lowest unemployment figure, has received $26. The outlay has been uneven because of the speeds at which various federal agencies have moved to allot the funds, with longstanding projects and regular government contractors getting money first. The analysis presents “an incomplete picture,” a White House spokeswoman says. (More Michigan stories.)