The thing people forget is that if you were to go to a regional without FAA time you'd be looking at 1.5-2 years min before command, add another year at least for LTC upgrade and other year for Checking. That offer expires 2024, barely enough time to become a Captain. What is the point? SO earns more sitting around their shoebox walkup.
The point is that these airlines are poaching pilots from each other. Presently, there is a lot of lateral movement going on. FO and capts going from one to another regional, collecting hefty bonuses and getting matched longevity pays already match so they don't start at the bottom of the payscale. They get year to year longevity payscale match. In some cases getting the base they've always wanted which their previous airline didn't offer.
It doesn't take 1-2 years at one airline to get the 1000hr 121 time needed to upgrade. You can at 2 years go to another airline, collect the bonus, get matched payscale longevity, and upgrade right away with your 1000 hr 121 time from previous airline. Cash bonus + matched payscale longevity at their higher per hour rate. That's how they attract pilots from other revional airlines. There will soon be another regional which will beat this ENVOY & PIEDMONT deal. Those who don't will keep losing pilots badly. It's a lovely show to watch...