The raucous debate over how to spend stimulus funds continues in statehouses across our fair country.

Michigan, which faces a $1.2 billion shortfall for the fiscal year that ends in September, is debating the use of stimulus funds to balance the state budget. The Missouri House voted to reject a budget bill that would have spent $335 million in federal stimulus money. The rejection means the state may carry a $1 billion stimulus funds balance into 2010. And in South Carolina, lawmakers voted to force Gov. Mark Sanford – who has been vocal about his plans to reject portions of stimulus funding allotted for the state – to request some $350 million.

But while politicians debate away, thanks goodness businesses are here to help!

IBM said it will make $2 billion in financing available for technology companies to launch projects that are likely to get stimulus funding in the future, like health information and smart grid technology. And Dell has launched an Economic Stimulus Learning Center, it says to help educate the public sector about the legislation.

Project of the Day: $6 million to shore up the decrepit dike around Lake Okeechobee as part of an overall $96 million for Everglades restoration.