Nick Rahall: “I rise in support of H.R. 2442, the reauthorization legislation for the Economic Development Administration and the…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 2442, the reauthorization legislation for the Economic Development Administration and the Appalachian Regional Commission. The Appalachian Regional Commission [ARC] was formed in 1965 to promote the region's economic development, and "to develop comprehensive and coordinated plans and establish planning priorities for the region." For more than a quarter century, it has been a unique Federal-State-local planning effort. Regrettably, despite its quarter century of successful operation, its continuation has never been secure. The reauthorization of both the ARC and the EDA before us today is yet another reauthorization bill similar to other bills reported by the Public Works and Transportation Committee since 1982--none of which were ever enacted. These two vital programs have been continued through the appropriations process--not through reauthorization legislation. We hope that this year, with the support of our President and this Congress, both will see enactment into law.”