Disaster Funds Dispute

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) - State officials are disputing the
federal government's claim that Alabama should repay $5.7 million
it recevied for disaster prepardness projects.
The government reimbursed Alabama for the millions it spent for
its Bioterrorism Hospital Preparedness Program that was part of a
federal project administered by state public health officials.
Inspectors are questioning money that was paid to the Alabama
Hospital Association, which is a statewide trade organization for
hospitals, health systems and related companies.
They say money should be paid back because the association put
the funds in an interest-bearing account and the $5.7 million
wasn't spent on the intended goods and services before a program
deadline.
State Health Officer Don Williamson contends the money was spent
when his department wrote the check to the hospital association.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)