In response to “Early education reduces later crime” (Dec. 12), our law enforcement leaders are right in supporting high-quality early education programs as an effective way to reduce crime. What’s more, these programs also can help us economically by strengthening Maine’s businesses in both the short- and the long-term.

While many recognize that early learning programs have long-term economic benefits, these programs also have an immediate impact, stimulating our local economy and creating jobs.

Research by the national business group, America’s Edge, concludes we can immediately increase the sales of local goods and services — in fact, $1.75 for every $1 invested. These programs have also been proven to lay the foundation for continued economic growth by ensuring our children have the 21st century skills businesses need.

In fact, children who participate in high quality early learning programs are up to 44 percent more likely to graduate from high school, are 22 percent more likely to be employed, and can have median earnings that are 36 percent higher as adults than those who did not participate in these valuable programs.

With a long-term rate of return as high as $16 for every $1 invested, these are investments we simply should not ignore.

Given the positive and proven impact high-quality early learning has on our businesses and economy, as well as on children, I agree with the law enforcement leaders that, even in these tough economic times, our federal and state lawmakers should prioritize funding for quality early learning.

Ray Martel, Lewiston