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White House is 'close' on Japan, India tariff agreements but expect them to be light on specifics; Families in limbo following federal energy assistance program cuts- we have reports from NH and MD; NV adopted CA's 'clean car' standard, rule now under GOP examination.

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Educators worry about President Trump's education plan, as federal judges block several of his executive orders. Battles over voting rules are moving in numerous courts. And FSU students protest a state bill lowering the age to buy a gun.

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Migration to rural America increased for the fourth year, technological gaps handicap rural hospitals and erode patient care, and doctors are needed to keep the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians healthy and align with spiritual principles.

Report highlights how Georgia can unlock rural infrastructure, broadband

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Monday, February 10, 2025   

A new report highlighted how regional commissions are helping improve infrastructure in rural America.

According to the Brookings Institution, the Appalachian Regional Commission has directed nearly 70% of its infrastructure funding to distressed rural areas, addressing gaps left by traditional federal programs. The report said in Georgia and surrounding states, the commission has been a vital resource since 1965, completing 91% of its goal to build highways through the Appalachian Mountains.

Now, the commission said it is shifting its focus to modern priorities such as broadband.

Gayle Manchin, federal co-chair of the commission, called broadband the "second highway," underscoring its role in expanding education, health care and economic opportunities in rural communities.

"When our children were sent home to go to school virtually, they had no internet in which to do that," Manchin pointed out. "Parents could not go home and work. There was no telehealth. And so that has become obviously the second highway system that we are building."

Manchin explained the goal is to reduce the number of distressed counties and poverty rates. Since its creation, she noted the commission has decreased the number of distressed counties by 60% and halved poverty rates. Manchin added there is still much more to do.

Manchin emphasized collaboration is key to securing infrastructure funding for rural Georgia but matching requirements for federal grants remain a significant hurdle for many distressed communities. She explained commission grants, unlike federal loans, are designed to be more accessible for small towns with limited budgets.

The Brookings report highlighted how partnerships between commissions, nonprofits and local organizations play a vital role in helping communities overcome obstacles and access critical resources.

"It's about the federal agencies working together as well," Manchin stressed. "How they can help be a bridge to these communities by sharing their knowledge and their funding together also."

Manchin also underscored the importance of building technical expertise in rural areas, noting many communities lack the staff or resources to navigate complex grant applications without outside support.


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