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New tax would slow economy

As lawmakers in Washington, D.C., propose yet another battery of taxes specifically designed to punish the natural gas and oil industry, you must wonder if they ever bother to seriously consider the ramifications of continually attacking one of their favorite targets. PricewaterhouseCoopers recently issued new analysis highlighting the significant contributions the natural gas, oil and fuels industries make in our country, including jobs, labor income and value added. The report shows that the industry has widespread economic impact throughout all sectors of the economy. In 2019, ...

Georgia’s ARC funds assist on strategic projects

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is part of a series of commentaries from governors of states comprising the Appalachian Regional Commission, an economic development agency for the region. As a member state of the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Georgia has effectively used federal funds to make strategic investments in projects to assist communities, support business development and job creation, and improve economic opportunities for hardworking Georgians in the Appalachian region. The 37 counties of North Georgia - from Trenton to Elberton, and Rabun Gap to Rockmart - are all part of the ...

ARC helps eastern Kentucky’s economy accelerate

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is part of a series of commentaries from governors of states comprising the Appalachian Regional Commission, an economic development agency for the region. Kentucky's economy is on fire, with economic momentum in every corner of the commonwealth. One region with potential we can't ignore is Eastern Kentucky, specifically in our Appalachian counties. With investments in industries like agritech and manufacturing, strong fiscal management and upgrades to critical infrastructure, Eastern Kentucky is ready to soar. Each week, we are announcing new jobs, with companies ...

ARP collaboration could transform Valley

What does one job mean to the Mahoning Valley? It means one family can buy school supplies and clothes, spend time at the baseball field on the weekend and go out to eat every now and then. It means adequate health care, paying the mortgage and putting gas in the car. It restores self-esteem, reduces stress and sometimes even saves a marriage. Since all that comes with one job, we as government and community leaders need to focus our efforts on a bold strategy for the Valley that emphasizes job creation, education and quality of life. The path forward now is made easier by the ...

We promised never to forget, but we have

This year we observe the 20th anniversary of 9/11. It’s a day we swore never to forget. But in 2021, we have sorely forgotten. In recent weeks, U.S. troops abruptly pulled out of Afghanistan, and the Taliban quickly filled the void. But instead of immediately seizing control of cities, the Taliban first sought control of the few roads and airports that allowed people to exit the country freely. Then, by setting up checkpoints and immediately executing those who seek refuge, they effectively trapped everyone in the country as they regroup and close in. Those trying to escape by ...

West Virginia partners with ARC for improvement

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is part of a series of commentaries from governors of states comprising the Appalachian Regional Commission, an economic development agency for the region. For every home improvement project, big or small, you need the right tools to get the job done. That's one way to think about the Appalachian Regional Commission, or ARC. Since 1965, ARC has been committed to investing in Appalachia by providing essential resources to build our communities, upgrade our infrastructure, and develop our regional economy. ARC is a federal-state-local partnership, which includes 13 ...