If I remember correctly, before many of the new generation flyers on here started, in the early to mid 90's, just about all regional or commuters required a pay for training or pay for your job. Xpressjet, Comair, Mesa, to name a few.
I believe Eagle is the only one that did not require pay for training which is why I started there back in the 90's. I didn't agree with the theory of paying, however everyone makes there decision based on their personal reasons and pref.