The Associated Press quoted McCaskill on Tuesday as saying that state leaders and especially Republicans were quote-"having it both ways" when it came to the stimulus.

The state's hurting for cash right now and Governor Nixon's proposed 20-11 budget relies on 1.2 billion in stimulus dollars to keep the state's finances afloat.

McCaskill sent a letter yesterday to two state assembly leaders House Budget Committee Chair Allen Icet and Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Rob Mayer asking whether Washington ought to take back unspent stimulus dollars.

The letter reads, quote, "If you want us to rescind the remaining money which you will spend this year and next, please let me know how Missourians will be hurt so I can make an informed decision."

Chairman Icet says the state's budget will likely include stimulus dollars but with state revenues down year-to-year, he would rather trim down the state's budget responsibly than wait for a Washington bailout.

"To me it makes more sense to cut budgets year by year in a prudent fashion versus do nothing, hope for a miracle, and when the miracle doesn't occur, then we face a catastrophe."

Icet says state lawmakers should work during this session to prepare for next year That's when federal stimulus money runs out. © Copyright 2012, KBIA