The Appalachian Regional Commission is responsible for a number of community development projects locally and nationwide including infrastructure, workforce training, access to healthcare especially in rural communities, broadband and the list continues.

However, in the latest discretionary budget, President Donald Trump proposed a cut of 93% for the 2026 budget year.

Cuts that severe would be devastating according to Jim Kinnick, executive director of Eastgate Regional Council of Governments. He continues, "Our communities rely on that for many great projects for underserved communities, healthcare and businesses. This would have a detrimental effect on the community."

The Appalachian region in Ohio includes Mahoning and Trumbull counties, among 30 others.

The House subcommittee oversees the ARC budget. Program Director Kathy Zook at Eastgate Regional tells 21 News she's hopeful about the new budget, claiming the subcommittee recommended $150 million for the budget instead.

Zook continues, "If congress is unable to agree on an appropriations bill then they'll have to go to continuing resolution. We're hoping to receive the funding to improve the lives of the people of Appalachia."

U.S. Representative Mike Kelly said the cut is dramatic. Kelly continues, "I don't have enough information on it but it's a lot. What would be the reason for having to cut this much? We're going to try to get in touch with appropriations. If you cut that much out, it's devastating."

Kinnick tells 21 News they'll be heading to Columbus to discuss this from a statewide perspective and see what can be done.