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Nixon freezes MOHELA construction program

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By Marshall Griffin, KWMU

Jefferson City, MO – The MOHELA college construction program, one of former Governor Matt Blunt's top priorities, has been frozen by Jay Nixon, Missouri's new Governor.

Nixon has suspended work indefinitely on a $31 million cancer center at the University of Missouri - Columbia and on various other projects. They're funded by profits from the state's student loan authority, but the economic downturn has resulted in delays in payments.

State House Budget Chairman Allen Icet (R, Wildwood), however, says that doesn't justify halting construction.

"You know, if we're talking about jobs and trying to stimulate the economy, and everyone supports that, then why would you cancel projects that clearly create jobs in the construction industry and other industries when the state of Missouri really needs this?" Icet said.

Democrats strongly opposed the MOHELA construction program two years ago, saying the funds should be used for their original purpose of providing loans to college students.

KWMU contacted Governor Nixon's office for this story, but so far no one has responded.

The MOHELA construction program is also known by its formal name, the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative.

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