Stimulus Funds To Be Tracked On Recovery Web Site

The White House has launched a new Web site dedicated entirely to the 1,100-page American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which President Barack Obama signed into law Tuesday.The site explains how the $787 billion will be spent and promises Americans that they can track every dollar contained in the package. The ambitious plan, which aims to create 3.5 million jobs while shoring up the country's infrastructure and services, is historic in scope. It's also the first major test of the new administration's efforts to ensure government transparency and accountability.

The Recovery.gov Web site features links to the full text of the act, as well as breakdowns and explanations. It also contains a presidential memo explaining that the Office of Management and Budget is developing new guidelines to ensure that all federal agencies meet new requirements to track, audit, and award the funds quickly so all spending can be posted on the Web site.

The site currently breaks down the funding by category, showing that the largest portion ($288 billion) will go toward tax relief, while $144 billion will go to states and localities. About $111 billion is slated for infrastructure and science.

The Web site promises visitors that they will be able to track spending by state and congressional district once the money begins to funnel out through federal agencies. Visitors will be able to access maps, charts, graphics, and a searchable database. They'll also be able to see who has won contracts for programs funded by the stimulus package.

In a statement released by the White House, Obama said that his Cabinet and staff will set up management, oversight, and disclosure for unprecedented accountability, responsibility, and transparency, while asking state and local governments to follow suit.

"With so much on the line, it's time to begin doing things differently," he said. "Ultimately, this is your money, and you deserve to know where it's going and how it's spent."

In keeping with what appears to be a new norm, Obama also promoted online engagement by saying he encourages all Americans to watch how the money is spent and send in comments and questions.