SOWM 2017 Chartbook

Out of work, out of hope – This is what a depressed economy looks like

Tens of thousands of Mainers disheartened by the dim prospects of good paying, middle-class jobs have given up looking for work. Some are discouraged to the point […]

New Report: State of Working Maine 2017

The State of Working Maine 2017 presents a comprehensive analysis of the economic, demographic, and workforce trends that impact the quality and quantity of jobs in Maine. […]

Women have the right to vote, but still don't get equal pay for equal work

At the current pace, Maine women won’t see equal pay for equal work until 2057. Despite significant advances in civil rights, women still face economic inequality.

In Maine, higher education tuition hikes and reduced quality threaten economic future 

The Maine Center for Economic Policy’s (MECEP) analysis of a report released by the Center for Budget Policy and Priorities (CBPP) reveals that Maine students at four-year public […]

Pine Tree Development Zones fail to create quality jobs in areas of need 

As part of a multiyear review of business tax credits, the state’s government accountability office reported today that the Pine Tree Development Zone (PTDZ) program does not live up to its promise of creating good jobs in higher unemployment areas.

#DefendDACA: Dreamers are good for jobs and the economy 

New Mainers are part of the solution to Maine’s demographic problems and help us fill labor needs. Beneficiaries of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), or “Dreamers”, […]

Proposed RAISE act immigration limits would harm Maine's economy

New Mainers tend to be better-educated and younger than Maine’s general population. In addition, the rate of small business ownership tends to be higher among minorities and immigrants than Maine’s population overall. This is the kind of entrepreneurial spirit on which America was founded and built.

How MaineCare Cuts Pushed Mainers and Maine Hospitals to the Financial Brink 

Maine’s hospitals can’t afford any more delays in accepting the federal offer to pay 90% of the costs associated with expanding eligibility to MaineCare. Medicaid expansion is necessary […]