Letter to Dianne Feinstein, Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water, and John Kennedy, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water - Kaine Leads Push to Direct Millions of Dollars toward Southeast Crescent Regional Commission

Letter

Dear Chairwoman Feinstein and Ranking Member Kennedy:

As you begin work on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, we respectfully request inclusion of funding for the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC) at the currently authorized level of $33 Million.

The SCRC is an independent federal agency dedicated to promoting economic development in the Southeastern United States -- specifically Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Established in the model of other regional commissions, such as the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and Delta Regional Authority, the SCRC, if appropriately funded, will serve as a significant federal resource for jobs and businesses, particularly in distressed and underserved communities.

The SCRC was created through the 2008 Farm Bill alongside the Northern Border Regional Commission and Southwest Border Regional Commission to address and improve economic conditions in communities across the nation lacking access to capital and adequate public infrastructure. Commission investments to grow business and job development opportunities include basic public infrastructure, workforce training, and telecommunications, among other key assets. The SCRC is led by governors of the region's seven states and a presidentially-appointed co-chair.

We urge your consideration of fully funding the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission at the authorized level in the Fiscal Year 2023 Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. Additional federal resources will be critical to promote sustainable economies, job and business development, and improved quality of life throughout the Southeast United States. Thank you for your consideration of this request.