February 2nd, 2018 by WCBC Radio

The Appalachian Regional Commission provides millions in investments to Appalachian communities each year — but it is completely cut in President Donald Trump’s proposed 2018 budget.  Trump’s proposed budget calls for the elimination of all funding for the commission. The commission was founded in 1965. At the time, over 30 percent of Appalachian residents lived in poverty. From 2011 to 2015, the poverty rate was just over 17 percent, according to the commission website. Additionally, the number of high-poverty counties in the region has declined from 295 in 1960 to 87 in 2015. Among the region’s most benefitting from ARC funding has been Western Maryland. U.S. Senator Ben Cardin said he understands the role ARC funding plays for Allegany and Garrett counties and will fight to keep the agency funded…