Va. budget negotiators agree on stimulus funds for education

General Assembly budget writers agree on the amount of federal stimulus money for education, but they've yet to decide how to spend it.

According to senior lawmakers, Virginia can plug $357 million into public schools. An additional $130 million is available for colleges and universities.

The cash is a part of a $1 billion down payment to the state under President Barack Obama's plan to jump start the economy. Virginia could receive more than $4 billion. Sen. R. Edward Houck, D-Spotsylvania, a Senate negotiator, said the money can be used to restore proposed cuts to K-12 and higher education.

"But it's up to the conferees to decide what to restore," said Houck.

Midnight Tuesday was the first deadline for the 12 negotiators --six senators and six delegates -- to reach agreement on a plan to balance Virginia's two-year, $77 billion budget.

Lawmakers have until Saturday -- the scheduled adjournment of the 2009 General Assembly -- to complete work on the budget and other legislative business.

"Hopefully, we'll adjourn on time and schedule," said Del. Phillip A. Hamilton, R-Newport News, a House conferee.

Contact Jeff E. Schapiro at (804) 649-6814 or .