Legislative Update: House Appropriations Approves FY 2020 Energy & Water Development Appropriations, Including $170 Million for ARC

On May 21, 2019, the House Appropriations Committee approved the FY20 Energy & Water Development Appropriations, which includes $170 million for ARC in the forthcoming fiscal year (the highest non-highway funding in ARC’s history). Of this appropriation, $50 million is to continue the POWER Initiative to diversify the economy in Appalachia’s coal-impacted communities, $10 million is to continue a program of broadband deployment in distressed counties in Central Appalachia, and $10 million is to focus on workplace re-entry strategies for those in long-term recovery from substance use disorder. The balance will fund ARC’s regular programs.

The House is expected to consider the full Appropriations bill in June. Senate action is pending.