Presented by Maine Center for Economic Policy
In State of Working Maine 2023, MECEP economic policy analyst James Myall suggests in order to avoid an eventual decline in the labor force and the accompanying negative effects, Maine needs to increase the share of traditional “working-age” Mainers who are employed, and support in-migration, both from other states and overseas, which increases the pool of potential workers.
Supporting Maine’s existing population requires removing barriers such as access to care for children, people with disabilities, and older adults, as well as bolstering supports such as higher education and safety-net programs. Some groups of Mainers, such as women, people of color, and older adults, face particular obstacles, including discrimination in the labor market, which need to be addressed.
Many policies that would support working Mainers would also make Maine a more attractive place for people to move. Increasing the number of workers through migration means ensuring Maine is a welcoming place to live with strong anti-discrimination laws and publicity campaigns aimed at reaching potential Mainers from all backgrounds.
For additional insight and perspectives, and to ask questions, MECEP will host a webinar on Tuesday, December 12 at noon. Speakers include State of Working Maine author James Myall and some of the Maine workers who have shared their stories for this year’s report.
For more information and to register, visit the event page.