A new law that took effect this year covers an estimated 85 percent of the workforce and allows workers to earn up to five days of paid time off each year.
Maine Department of Labor
Posted inBusiness, Local & State
State delivers $600 checks to 40,000 jobless Mainers
The one-time payment will go to those unemployed because of COVID-19 as the state prepares to start new federal jobless benefits.
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Posted inBusiness, Local & State
Maine unemployment claims dip slightly as workforce crisis continues
More than 50,000 continued claims for benefits were filed last week in the state, and about 2,000 Mainers filed initial claims.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State
State predicts Maine will lose nearly 16,000 jobs by 2028
But a shrinking labor market could increase wages and productivity, and an upswing in migration to the state could ease job losses, according to a new state analysis.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State
Maine’s continuing weekly jobless claims fall by nearly 10,000
Weekly certifications for both state and federal benefits declined sharply last week, to 56,700, after totaling roughly 66,000 the previous week.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State
Unemployed Mainers now can receive benefits for as long as a year
The state is invoking an emergency extension that, combined with an earlier federal extension, prolongs eligibility to 52 weeks.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State
Job search requirements resume for laid-off Mainers
Looking for a job, a typical requirement for receiving jobless aid, was waived in the worst months of the coronavirus pandemic.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News
Employers say worker-retention program riddled with problems
Some participants complain of missed payments and poor customer service, but the state says WorkShare is new to many, and more education on its proper use may be needed.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News
Maine jobless claims continue to ease amid phased reopening of businesses
Over 4,000 Mainers filed new claims for jobless benefits last week, even as the state prepared to allow the vast majority of businesses to open back up.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News
Lawmakers furious after Maine’s top labor official fails to attend briefing
Labor and Housing Committee members said it was inexcusable for Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman not to appear and answer questions Thursday, but Gov. Janet Mills said legislative leaders were told last week that Fortman was unlikely to attend.