Maine Announces Cash Incentive To Get Mainers Back To Work

If you have recently eaten in a restaurant, had a beer in a bar, or shopped at a store, there is a good chance you've notice a few things.  First, there seem to be fewer employees than there were prior to the pandemic-caused shutdowns.  Second, the business probably has a "help wanted" sign in the window.

Depending on who you ask, there are several reasons for why these businesses are having issues finding employees.  We're not going to talk about that...  Yeah, we could spend hours and hours arguing about the reason.  And, at the end of the day, you are never going to change anyone's mind about the subject.

Instead, we are going to focus on what we help will be a solution to the problem.

According to WMTW, Governor Janet Mills' administration has announced a new, one-time, cash incentive intended to convince workers who are still at home to return to work.

It's called the Back To Work Program and it will provide  $1,500 payment for eligible workers who start jobs between June 15 and June 30.  Workers who start jobs in the month of July will be entitled to a $1,000 payment.

The employees will not get the money immediately, though.  Once an employee has worked for a company for eight weeks, the business will submit paperwork proving it.  After verification, the employer will be given the money to pass it on to the employee.

The program begins tomorrow (June 15th) and applications will be accepted through July 25th.

What is your opinion on the program?  Let us know by messaging us through our app or on Facebook.