Editor,

One of the concerns I hear the most as a legislator is what Maine needs to do to grow more economically and make it easier for working families to not only make ends meet, but to prosper. As a parent, a former mill worker, and member of our community, I share this sentiment, and it is my top priority in Augusta.

Building Maine’s economy requires a multi-faceted approach that makes smart investments in innovation and growth, promotes access to high-quality higher education and finds efficiencies throughout government services and our tax structure. Most of all, this approach must give working people the essential tools they need, such as affordable health care and better wages, to pursue the quality of life our state is famous for.

This week, the federal minimum wage will be raised for the first time in a decade, from a meager $5.15 per hour to $5.85, with increases planned for the next three years to eventually bring the minimum wage to $7.25.

By contrast, in October, Maine’s minimum wage will increase to $7 an hour, an initiative I was proud to support at the State House in my first term. It took 10 years for the federal government to do what Maine – and 28 other states – have already done. Combine this with the investments we’re making in roads and bridges, higher education, and research and development, and it shows strong progress toward meeting our goals, and making Maine truly the way life should be.

I’m always interested in hearing more about what else we can do to work to build Maine’s economy and make it easier for working families to provide for their children. Feel free to call me at home (892-6591) or e-mail me at RepMarkBryant@yahoo.com with your thoughts.

Sincerely,

Rep. Mark Bryant

Windham