I am writing to address the impacts of minimum wage on Mainers and the need for legislators to implement policies that will put an end to the economic injustices that exist in this state.

Through the years, the people of Maine have been fighting to improve the severe economic conditions.

One of the factors contributing to the economic climate is low-wage jobs. The workers who receive wages at or near the minimum are individuals of poor families.

Raising the minimum wage and indexing it is an effective way to boost consumer spending and the economy. It would eliminate entry-level jobs for unskilled workers, making it more difficult for those who want to work to find jobs.

Low-wage jobs provide the poor with an escape route from poverty. They see it as the only alternative to provide for their families.

Studies show that one out of every three Maine workers is employed in industries that pay, on average, below $30,000 per year. In addition, 18 percent of jobs don’t pay enough to meet the basic needs of individual families.

It is important that new policies are created that will not only create jobs but also increase the minimum wage.

At a time when working Mainers face increased economic hardship, it is time to implement policies that will boost Maine’s economy.

It is also important for Mainers to put pressure on elected officials and acknowledge that something must be done to sustain the economy.

Mary Osborne, Lewiston