COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment Bookmark and Share

May 24, 2021

Hello,

The Maine Department of Labor is working with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to make sure Maine people have information about getting vaccinated against COVID-19. Everyone age 12 and older is now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

All three U.S. FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines have proven to be safe and remarkably effective at preventing severe disease and death from COVID-19. We encourage everyone 12 and older to get the vaccine as soon as possible.

Scheduling Your Appointment

The vaccines are free, and many sites across the State are providing vaccination with no appointment necessary. To find an appointment near you, please visit https://www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines/vaccination-sites .

If you cannot access the website or need additional assistance to get an appointment, you can call the Maine COVID-19 Community Vaccination Line at 1-888-445-4111. The Community Vaccination Line can also support Maine people who need interpretation assistance, help with transportation, are homebound, or have other questions about resources in their area. Deaf or hard of hearing individuals can access the Community Vaccination Line by dialing 711 and requesting to be connected to 1-888-445-4111.

Should you have a child or guardian in need of vaccination, please note that only the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has been authorized by the FDA for use in youth ages 12-17. Please visit https://www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines/vaccination-sites to learn which sites are vaccinating youth.

Need a Ride to Your Vaccination Appointment?

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services is offering free rides for anyone in Maineto and from a COVID-19 vaccination appointment. Call1-855-608-5172 to reserve a ride at least 48 hours in advance of your appointment.That phone number can also support translation services, should you need to request a ride and your preferred language is not English.

Individuals must have a vaccination appointment before requesting a ride. Rides will be provided to and from the appointment. These may be shared rides so DHHS can provide transportation to as many people as possible, and face masks will be required.

DHHS can provide transportation for appointments that are scheduled Monday through Saturday from 7:00 am - 4:00 pm. At least 48 hours before the vaccine appointment, individuals should call 1-855-608-5172 to reserve a ride and should have the following information ready:

  • Date and time of appointment

  • Name, address, and phone number of the facility where they are receiving the vaccination

MaineCare members who already use a Non-Emergency Transportation (NET) broker to arrange rides to their MaineCare-covered services should call that same broker for rides to vaccination clinics. This program is for MaineCare members who are ineligible for Non-Emergency Transportation as well as any other Maine resident who does not have access to reliable transportation to get to their vaccination appointment.

For more information aboutthe NETprogram, including how to submit a ride request online, please visit the website:https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oms/member-resources/transportation .

Sincerely,

The Maine Department of Labor

Supporting documents

List of MaineCare NET Brokers (PDF)

List of MaineCare NET Brokers (Word)

Relief for Maine H-2B Employers: U.S. DOL, DHS release 22,000 H-2B Visas Nationally for Returning Foreign Workers Bookmark and Share

May 25, 2021

For Immediate Release: May 25, 2021

Relief for Maine H-2B Employers:

U.S. DOL, DHS release 22,000 H-2B Visas Nationally for Returning Foreign Workers

AUGUSTA - Maine employers who are already certified by the U.S. Department of Labor now have another chance to apply for H-2B, or nonagricultural nonimmigrant temporary worker visas: The Secretary of Homeland Security has decided, after consultation with Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor, to increase the H-2B cap for FY 2021 by up to 22,000 additional visas.

The visas are for American businesses that are likely to suffer irreparable harm (permanent and severe financial loss) without the ability to employ all of the H-2B workers requested on their respective petitions before the end of FY 2021.

"Many Maine businesses rely on temporary workers during the busy summer tourism season," Maine Department of Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman said. "I encourage qualifying businesses who are still looking to hire nonagricultural, nonimmigrant temporary workers to consider taking advantage of these additional visas to help fill the gaps in their workforce. The Maine CareerCenters stand ready to help employers with recruitment assistance and posting job orders on the Maine JobLink."

The 22,000 visas are divided into two allocations, as follows:

  • 16,000 visas limited to returning workers, regardless of country of nationality, who were issued H-2B visas or held H-2B status in fiscal years 2018, 2019, or 2020

  • 6,000 visas initially reserved for nationals of the Northern Triangle countries as attested by the petitioner (regardless of whether such nationals are returning workers). However, if all 6,000 visas reserved for nationals of the Northern Triangle countries are not allocated by July 8, 2021, USCIS will announce by July 23, 2021, on its website, that such unused Northern Triangle country visas will be made available to employers regardless of the beneficiary's country of nationality, subject to the returning worker limitation.

"Maine's hospitality industry is excited to have this second opportunity to access some of the 22,000 additional H2B visa workers available through the H-2B cap increase," Greg Dugal of HospitalityMaine said. "It is no secret that there is a shortage of workers in general in every state and that this effort will be one of many ways to resolve that issue for what looks to be an incredibly busy summer travel season in Maine."

Employers, who must already be certified by U.S. DOL, will be required to work with MDOL to:

  1. Place a new job order with the Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ for at least 15 calendar days; and

  2. Contact the nearest Maine CareerCenter - https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/locations/index.shtml in the geographic area where work will commence to request staff assistance to advertise and recruit U.S. workers for the job opportunity.

CareerCenters can be reached by email at MaineAtWork.DOL@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by LiveChat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Information on other qualification requirements for the FY 2021 supplemental cap can be found in the temporary rule, which was published in the Federal Register on May 25, 2021: https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2021-11048/exercise-of-time-limited-authority-to-increase-the-fiscal-year-2021-numerical-limitation-for-the

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending May 22 Bookmark and Share

May 27, 2021

For Immediate Release: May 27, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending May 22

AUGUSTA - For the week ending May 22, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,000 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 200 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). In total, approximately 1,300 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Unemployment claims filed each week continue to steadily decline. About 11,600 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 12,700 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 16,400 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

Between March 15, 2020 and May 22, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.2 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits.

The Department has handled approximately 259,400 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 111,700 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Traditional Work Search Requirements Reinstated:

The Maine Department of Labor reinstated traditional work search requirements for people receiving unemployment benefits on May 23, 2021.

Work search requirements had been temporarily relaxed because of the pandemic to include job-related education or skills development, and networking. Now people receiving unemployment will be required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can go back to work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at MaineCareerCenter.gov.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined can report those refusals by using this online form. The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program, which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates

Virtual Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual and drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming virtual hiring event: On June 3, 2021 from 2-4 p.m., Maine CareerCenters are hosting a virtual job fair for Staffing Agencies (Non-Medical) and Financial Services Employment.

More information: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=4296174

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times. They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html .

They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor launched a new website for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The new website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending May 22, the Department cancelled 118 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending May 29 Bookmark and Share

June 3, 2021

For Immediate Release: June 3, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending May 29

AUGUSTA - For the week ending May 29, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,400 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). In total, approximately 1,800 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Unemployment continued claims filed each week continue to steadily decline, down roughly 1,600 claims from the previous week. About 10,600 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 12,300 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 16,100 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 4,400 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Between March 15, 2020 and May 29, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.2 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.7 billion of the $2.2 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 260,700 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 111,800 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Traditional Work Search Requirement:

The Maine Department of Labor reinstated traditional work search requirements for people receiving unemployment benefits on May 23, 2021.

Work search requirements had been temporarily relaxed because of the pandemic to include job-related education or skills development, and networking. Now people receiving unemployment will be required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined can report those refusals by using this online form. The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program, which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

Virtual Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual and drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming virtual hiring event: On June 10, 2021 from 2-4 p.m., Maine CareerCenters are hosting a virtual job fair featuring the Maine Registered Apprenticeship Program and participating employers.

More information: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=4296175

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html. They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor launched a new website for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The new website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending May 29, the Department cancelled 350 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending June 5 Bookmark and Share

June 10, 2021

For Immediate Release: June 10, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending June 5

AUGUSTA - For the week ending June 5, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,600 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 150 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). In total, approximately 1,900 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy.

Overall unemployment continued claims filed each week continue to steadily decline, down roughly 760 claims from the previous week. About 10,700 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 11,900 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 15,600 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,600 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Between March 15, 2020 and June 5, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.2 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.7 billion of the $2.2 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 262,400 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 111,900 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

The Maine Department of Labor reinstated traditional work search requirements for people receiving unemployment benefits on May 23, 2021.

Work search requirements had been temporarily relaxed because of the pandemic to include job-related education or skills development, and networking. Now people receiving unemployment will be required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined can report those refusals by using this online form. The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program, which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On June 15, 2021 from 12-3 p.m., Maine CareerCenters and the Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce are hosting an in-person hiring event at Sherman's Field on Townsend Ave. in Boothbay Harbor.

The event is open to all job seekers and employers. More information, including how employers can register and a list of attending employers can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=4772221

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html. They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor launched a new website for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The new website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending June 5, the Department cancelled 213 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

MDOL Launches New Data Tool Showcasing Graduate Earnings in Maine Bookmark and Share

June 16, 2021

For Immediate Release: June 16, 2021

MDOL Launches New Data Tool Showcasing Graduate Earnings in Maine

The Maine Post-Secondary Outcomes Report Displays Economic Outcomes of Graduates by School, Program, and Credential

AUGUSTA-The Maine Department of Labor's Center for Workforce Research and Information (CWRI) is excited to announce the launch of the Maine Post-Secondary Outcomes Report (MPSO), a MaineEARNS data series that provides the employment and earnings outcomes of graduates from the University of Maine System (UMS) and Maine Community College System (MCCS). We encourage you to explore the new Maine Post-Secondary Outcomes Report with expanded features and newly available data here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/mpso

"MaineEARNS is a wonderful resource for Maine people interested in using data to make decisions related to education and training. The tool provides insight into salary and industry of employment for Maine graduates," said Laura Fortman, Commissioner of the Department of Labor. I encourage you to take a look and explore the new features.

MPSO is a longitudinal data series, containing aggregated graduate records beginning in 2009, three cohorts of graduates and up to nine labor market outcomes years of data after graduation. Available data includes the industries graduates enter, age at graduation, newly available outcome years, wages adjusted for inflation, and rollups that contain all students across all cohorts to increase sample sizes.

For ease of navigation, the new MPSO website displays data that can be viewed from different perspectives including by Broad Fields of Study, by Program, by School, and for General Research purposes. The published data is searchable by credential or degree, area of study, and school, displaying aggregated information for cohorts of graduates ensuring individual confidentially.

The data system serves as a platform for understanding what happens to cohorts of students after completing post-secondary credentials and as they progress through the workforce. It can be used to address such questions as: - How many graduates go on to work in Maine? - What do they earn? - How do the wage and employment outcomes for various credentials compare? - In which industries do graduates find employment?

We invite you to view the data, which can be used to find post-secondary credentials available in Maine, and is an excellent resource for prospective students, their parents and any others exploring or advising others about higher education.

This dataset shows how much you can earn after spending just one or two years at a community college. Looking to earn more than $60K? This data shows that there are many programs at the community colleges - including electrical lineworkers, telecommunications tech, healthcare, precision machining, computer science, business - that can get you there, said David Daigler, president of the Maine Community College System. Reliable, specific wage data can be hard to find. This new searchable database puts detailed information at everyones fingertips, allowing them to make smart choices about their careers and education. Thats a good thing.

A college degree can improve wages and opportunities across generations, said University of Maine System Chancellor Dannel Malloy. MaineEARNS provides students and their families with information that can help them make the right choices about their college and career pathways. Providing better insights on the impact of higher education also creates the incentives we need to engage more people with our programs and build a stronger, more highly qualified workforce for Maine.

MPSO is a MaineEARNS product, built in partnership with UMS and MCCS. Grants from the U.S. Department of Labors Education and Training Administration including the Workforce Data Quality Initiative grant (WDQI) grant provided the majority of the funding for the project, with additional state support. MaineEARNS was originally launched as a pilot in 2014. Data from participating education and training programs are matched with available unemployment insurance wage records. To learn more about the many capabilities and limitations of the MPSO report, please visit: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/mpso/about.html

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending June 12 Bookmark and Share

June 17, 2021

For Immediate Release: June 17, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending June 12

AUGUSTA - For the week ending June 12, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,350 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 300 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 1,300 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall unemployment continued claims filed each week continue to steadily decline, down roughly 1,050 claims from the previous week. About 10,200 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 11,500 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 15,500 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,600 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Between March 15, 2020 and June 12, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.27 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.7 billion of the $2.27 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 263,100 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 112,200 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.1 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

The Maine Department of Labor reinstated traditional work search requirements for people receiving unemployment benefits on May 23, 2021.

Work search requirements had been temporarily relaxed because of the pandemic to include job-related education or skills development, and networking. Now people receiving unemployment will be required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at MaineCareerCenter.gov.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form. The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program, which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

New Back to Work Program Employer Application Available

On June 14, Governor Mills announced the creation of the new Back to Work program, aimed at getting unemployed Maine people back into the workforce. The employer application for the program is now available, and can be found here along with FAQs: https://www.maine.gov/covid19/back-to-work-grants

The Back to Work program, administered by the Maine Department of Labor and the Department of Economic and Community Development, will provide employers a one-time $1,500 payment for eligible workers who start jobs between June 15 and June 30 or a $1,000 payment for eligible workers who start jobs in July to encourage unemployed Maine people to return to the workforce. The first-come, first-served program will utilize $10 million in Federal funding and could reach up to 7,500 Maine people.

To be eligible, people must:

  • Have received unemployment compensation for the week ending May 29, 2021;
  • Accept a full-time job that pays less than $25 per hour and remain in the job for a period of at least eight consecutive weeks, and;
  • Not receive unemployment compensation during the eight-week period of employment

The program began on June 15, 2021, and applications will be accepted through July 25, 2021. Once the employee has worked for eight weeks, the employer will provide documentation of the completion of the requirement and grant funds will be issued to the employer to be passed through to the employee.

MDOL Launches New Data Tool Showcasing Graduate Earnings in Maine

The Maine Department of Labor's Center for Workforce Research and Information (CWRI) is excited to announce the launch of the Maine Post-Secondary Outcomes Report (MPSO), a MaineEARNS data series that provides the employment and earnings outcomes of graduates from the University of Maine System (UMS) and Maine Community College System (MCCS). We encourage you to explore the new Maine Post-Secondary Outcomes Report with expanded features and newly available data here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/mpso

For ease of navigation, the new MPSO website displays data that can be viewed from different perspectives including by Broad Fields of Study, by Program, by School, and for General Research purposes. The published data is searchable by credential or degree, area of study, and school, displaying aggregated information for cohorts of graduates ensuring individual confidentially.

The data system serves as a platform for understanding what happens to cohorts of students after completing post-secondary credentials and as they progress through the workforce. It can be used to address such questions as: - How many graduates go on to work in Maine? - What do they earn? - How do the wage and employment outcomes for various credentials compare? - In which industries do graduates find employment?

The full press release can be found at: https://www.maine.gov/labor/news_events/article.shtml?id=4983786

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On July 1, 2021 from 2-4 p.m., Maine CareerCenters are hosting a virtual hiring event featuring jobs in the Medical/Medical Staffing/Home Care fields. More information: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=4296178

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor launched a new website for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The new website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources. The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending June 12, the Department cancelled 981 initial claims and three weekly claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

May Workforce Conditions in Maine Bookmark and Share

June 23, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 23, 2021

May Workforce Conditions in Maine

AUGUSTA - There was little change in workforce conditions between April and May:

  • Nonfarm payroll jobs were little changed
  • The 4.7 percent unemployment rate was little changed
  • Labor force participation was unchanged

Seasonally Adjusted Estimates

Nonfarm Payroll Jobs Estimates The number of nonfarm payroll jobs was little changed in May, down 600 to 610,600. Decreases in construction and manufacturing jobs were mostly offset by increases in wholesale and retail trade and other services.

The number of nonfarm jobs increased 52,800 from a year-ago. The largest gains over the year were in the sectors most impacted at the beginning of the pandemic: leisure and hospitality, retail trade, and healthcare and social assistance.

There remained 29,400 fewer jobs than in February 2020, before the virus impacted the labor market. Maine had 4.6 percent fewer jobs than 15 months earlier, compared to the national 5.0 percent decrease. Over that period, jobs remained down the most in leisure and hospitality, public and private education (K-12 and higher ed), and healthcare and social assistance.

Labor Force and Unemployment Estimates In May the number of unemployed was down 1,100 to 31,400 and the unemployment rate was 4.7 percent following three consecutive months at 4.8 percent. The labor force participation rate was unchanged at 60.1 percent.

Over the last year, the unemployment rate decreased sharply from the pandemic-induced 8.3 percent in May 2020, though it remained elevated from the 3.1 percent rate of February 2020. The same is true for labor force participation. The share of the population age 16 and over in the labor force increased 0.9 percentage points from a year ago, though it remained 2.5 points lower than in February 2020.

The lower rate of participation in the labor force than before the pandemic continued to cause unemployment data to understate the impact of the decrease in the number of jobs. If participation in May was as high as it was 15 months earlier, the number of unemployed would be 28,500 higher and the unemployment rate would be 8.5 percent.

U.S and New England Unemployment Rates The U.S. and New England unemployment rates were 5.8 percent and 5.9 percent in May. Rates for other states in the region were 2.5 percent in New Hampshire, 2.6 percent in Vermont, 6.1 percent in Massachusetts, 5.8 percent in Rhode Island, and 7.7 percent in Connecticut.

Substate Not Seasonally Adjusted Estimates

The not seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment rate of 4.7 percent for May was down from 8.7 percent one year ago. Unemployment rates were lowest in Sagadahoc County (3.7 percent) and highest in Washington County (6.6 percent).

Unemployment rates were below the statewide average in the Bangor (4.4 percent) and Portland-South Portland (4.2 percent) metro areas, and above the average in Lewiston-Auburn (4.9 percent).

June workforce estimates will be released Friday, July 16 at 10 a.m. (Data Release Schedule) - https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/releaseDates.html

Monthly workforce estimates are cooperatively produced and released by the Maine Department of Labor, Center for Workforce Research and Information and the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.

NOTES

  1. Preliminary seasonally-adjusted labor force estimates, including rates (labor force participation, employment, and unemployment rates), and levels (labor force, employed, and unemployed) tend to move in a direction for several months and then reverse course. Those directional trends are largely driven by a smoothing procedure and may not indicate a change in underlying workforce conditions. Annual revisions (published in March each year) tend to moderate or eliminate those directional patterns. A comparison of 2020 preliminary and revised estimates of labor force and unemployment rates, as well as nonfarm payroll jobs, is available at https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/2021workforcedata_revisions.pdf

  2. The 90 percent confidence interval for statewide unemployment rates for May is 1.0 percentage points above or below the published estimate.

  3. To assess job growth, we recommend looking at nonfarm jobs from the payroll survey rather than at resident employment from the household survey. The payroll survey is larger, has smaller margins of error, and is subject to smaller revisions. A 2016 blog on the differences in accuracy of the two measures provides more context at https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/imprecise_data.pdf

  4. Nonfarm payroll jobs estimates tend to be volatile from month to month because there is variability in the sample of reporting employers and their representativeness for the universe of all employers. Additionally, seasonal adjustment is imperfect because weather, the beginning and ending of school semesters, holidays, and other events do not always occur with the same timing relative to the pay period that includes the 12th day of the month, which is the reference period. This sometimes exacerbates monthly volatility. Users should look to the trend over multiple months rather than the change from one specific month to another. Estimates for the period from April 2020 to September 2021 will be replaced with actual payroll data in March 2022. Those benchmark revisions are likely to show less volatility than preliminary estimates do.

Maine Department of Labor Partnering with ID.me to Help Protect Unemployment Claimants Bookmark and Share

June 23, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 23, 2021

Maine Department of Labor Partnering with ID.me to Help Protect Unemployment Claimants

AUGUSTA - Along with states across the country, the Department has partnered with trusted technology partner ID.me to help bolster current fraud prevention measures and protect unemployment claimants.

ID.me is a secure and safe national portal that Maine will be using to verify the identity of unemployment claimants in our ongoing efforts to detect and prevent fraudulent unemployment claims. This identity verification integration is in addition to current fraud prevention measures and will help to ensure claimants identities are verified before their claim is processed.

Who will be asked to verify their identity?

A claimant may be selected to provide proof of their identity through the secure portal for one of two main reasons:

1. Their claim was reviewed and contains elements that have been seen in confirmed ID Theft claims. To ensure the claim is legitimate and benefits will be paid to the actual claimant, providing proof of their identity through the ID.me portal may be required.

2. Per federal guidance in the Continued Assistance Act of 2020, all new Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claims filed after January 31, 2021 are subject to identity verification.

If a claimant must submit ID verification documents, notification will be added to their ReEmployME account, and instructions for completion of the process may be found under Correspondences in their account, as well as sent via regular mail.

They will be asked to create an ID.me account and begin the identity verification process. The Department recommends that claimants create a unique username and password that they have not used for anything else.

Once they complete the identity verification process, the result will be sent back to the Department in real-time. If there are no other issues, the Department will move forward with their claim. If there is still a question about their identity after completing the verification process, ID.me may reach out to the claimant directly for next steps.

ID.me also partners with many federal government agencies, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, and Department of the Treasury. Many other states have partnered with ID.me to help prevent unemployment benefit fraud. According to ID.me, almost 70% of the country's population is now using the service to verify for unemployment benefits.

More information on the process will be posted to our website: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/

Anyone who believes that their information has been used to file a fraudulent unemployment claim should let the Department know immediately by reporting it here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/fraud/

Employers are also crucial partners in identifying fraudulent claims filed in their employees names. Employers can report fraud online: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/fraud/ or email UIFraud.DOL@maine.gov.

Maine Awarded Over $5.5 Million Grant to Support Registered Apprenticeship Bookmark and Share

June 23, 2021

Maine Awarded Over $5.5 Million Grant to Support Registered Apprenticeship

AUGUSTA - The Maine Dept. of Labor has been awarded a $5,594,187 State Apprenticeship Expansion, Equity and Innovation grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, effective July 1. Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a nationally recognized, portable credential.

The grant, which is part of more than $99 million awarded to 15 states, will help Maine continue to develop, modernize, and diversify its Registered Apprenticeship Program and accelerate its expansion.

"In Maine, there are currently 948 registered apprentices and 263 participating businesses. This grant recognizes the effectiveness of the Registered Apprenticeship model in providing a successful career pathway to high-wage occupations," Commissioner Laura Fortman said. "It also provides critical funding to begin expanding this "learn while you earn" training method, making it available to more people and businesses."

The grant will focus on expanding apprenticeship in high wage and in-demand occupations in healthcare and infrastructure, such as broadband and renewable energy, and to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion practices within these expansion efforts. Outreach efforts will stress recruiting women, people with disabilities, people of color, and justice involved individuals.

"Today's announcement reflects the Department of Labors renewed commitment to expanding Registered Apprenticeship to train U.S. workers and ensure that diversity and inclusion are core elements of our nations post-pandemic economic recovery," said Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh in a June 22 press release. "Using Registered Apprenticeships to expand career opportunities for all workers, especially those in under-represented populations, is a priority for the department and a critical component of the Biden-Harris administrations American Jobs Plan."

U.S DOLs Employment and Training Administration awarded more than $99 million in State Apprenticeship Expansion, Equity and Innovation grants -- ranging from $2 million to $10 million -- to bolster states efforts to expand programming and inclusive recruitment strategies to attract a diverse workforce. The awards include more than $85 million for states that demonstrated a commitment to increase their diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. These grants also aim to develop partnerships with new industries and non-traditional occupations, including industry sectors hardest hit by the pandemic, and align Registered Apprenticeships with other work-based learning opportunities within state education and workforce systems.

The U.S. DOL press release can be found here: https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/eta/eta20210622

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending June 19 Bookmark and Share

June 24, 2021

For Immediate Release: June 24, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending June 19

Overall, weekly unemployment claims continue to decrease

AUGUSTA - For the week ending June 19, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,500 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 1,800 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall unemployment continued claims filed each week continue to steadily decline, down roughly 950 claims from the previous week. About 9,600 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 11,250 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 15,400 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,600 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Between March 15, 2020 and June 19, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.29 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.7 billion of the $2.29 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 264,700 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 112,300 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.1 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

CareerCenters host a variety of job fairs as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form. The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program, which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

Maine Awarded Over $5.5 Million Grant to Support Registered Apprenticeship

The Maine Dept. of Labor has been awarded a $5,594,187 State Apprenticeship Expansion, Equity and Innovation grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, effective July 1. Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a nationally recognized, portable credential.

The grant, which is part of more than $99 million awarded to 15 states, will help Maine continue to develop, modernize, and diversify its Registered Apprenticeship Program and accelerate its expansion.

In Maine, there are currently 948 registered apprentices and 263 participating businesses. This grant recognizes the effectiveness of the Registered Apprenticeship model in providing a successful career pathway to high-wage occupations, Commissioner Laura Fortman said. It also provides critical funding to begin expanding this learn while you earn training method, making it available to more people and businesses.

The grant will focus on expanding apprenticeship in high wage and in-demand occupations in healthcare and infrastructure, such as broadband and renewable energy, and to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion practices within these expansion efforts. Outreach efforts will stress recruiting women, people with disabilities, people of color, and justice involved individuals.

U.S DOL's Employment and Training Administration awarded more than $99 million in State Apprenticeship Expansion, Equity and Innovation grants - ranging from $2 million to $10 million to bolster states efforts to expand programming and inclusive recruitment strategies to attract a diverse workforce. The awards include more than $85 million for states that demonstrated a commitment to increase their diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. These grants also aim to develop partnerships with new industries and non-traditional occupations, including industry sectors hardest hit by the pandemic, and align Registered Apprenticeships with other work-based learning opportunities within state education and workforce systems.

The U.S. DOL press release can be found here: https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/eta/eta20210622

MDOL Partnering with ID.me to Help Protect Unemployment Claimants

Along with states across the country, the Department has partnered with trusted technology partner ID.me to help bolster current fraud prevention measures and protect unemployment claimants.

ID.me is a secure and safe national portal that Maine will be using to verify the identity of unemployment claimants in our ongoing efforts to detect and prevent fraudulent unemployment claims. This identity verification integration is in addition to current fraud prevention measures and will help to ensure claimants identities are verified before their claim is processed.

Who will be asked to verify their identity?

A claimant may be selected to provide proof of their identity through the secure portal for one of two main reasons:

  1. Their claim was reviewed and contains elements that have been seen in confirmed ID Theft claims. To ensure the claim is legitimate and benefits will be paid to the actual claimant, providing proof of their identity through the ID.me portal may be required.
  2. Per federal guidance in the Continued Assistance Act of 2020, all new Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claims filed after January 31, 2021 are subject to identity verification.

If a claimant must submit ID verification documents, notification will be added to their ReEmployME account, and instructions for completion of the process may be found under Correspondences in their account, as well as sent via regular mail.

They will be asked to create an ID.me account and begin the identity verification process. The Department recommends that claimants create a unique username and password that they have not used for anything else.

Once they complete the identity verification process, the result will be sent back to the Department in real-time. If there are no other issues, the Department will move forward with their claim. If there is still a question about their identity after completing the verification process, ID.me may reach out to the claimant directly for next steps.

ID.me also partners with many federal government agencies, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, and Department of the Treasury. Many other states have partnered with ID.me to help prevent unemployment benefit fraud. According to ID.me, almost 70% of the countrys population is now using the service to verify for unemployment benefits.

More information on the process is on our website: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor launched a website for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The new website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending June 19, the Department cancelled 811 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

Back to Work Program Employer Application Available

On June 14, Governor Mills announced the creation of the new Back to Work program, aimed at getting unemployed Maine people back into the workforce. The employer application for the program is now available, and can be found here along with FAQs: https://www.maine.gov/covid19/back-to-work-grants

The Back to Work program, administered by the Maine Department of Labor and the Department of Economic and Community Development, will provide employers a one-time $1,500 payment for eligible workers who start jobs between June 15 and June 30 or a $1,000 payment for eligible workers who start jobs in July to encourage unemployed Maine people to return to the workforce. The first-come, first-served program will utilize $10 million in Federal funding and could reach up to 7,500 Maine people.

To be eligible, people must: 1. Have received unemployment compensation for the week ending May 29, 2021; 2. Accept a full-time job that pays less than $25 per hour and remain in the job for a period of at least eight consecutive weeks, and; 3. Not receive unemployment compensation during the eight-week period of employment.

The program began on June 15, 2021, and applications will be accepted through July 25, 2021. Once the employee has worked for eight weeks, the employer will provide documentation of the completion of the requirement and grant funds will be issued to the employer to be passed through to the employee.

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On July 1, 2021 from 2-4 p.m., Maine CareerCenters are hosting a virtual hiring event featuring jobs in the Medical/Medical Staffing/Home Care fields. More information: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=4296178

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending June 26, 2021 Bookmark and Share

July 1, 2021

For Immediate Release: July 1, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending June 26

AUGUSTA - For the week ending June 26, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,400 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 700 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). Most of the PUA initial claims are due to already existing claimants moving from the regular state unemployment program to federal PUA. These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 1,600 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall unemployment continued claims filed each week continue to steadily decline, down roughly 600 claims from the previous week. About 9,400 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 11,000 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 15,300 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,300 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Between March 15, 2020 and June 26, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.3 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.7 billion of the $2.3 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs

The Department has handled approximately 266,050 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 113,000 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.2 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

CareerCenters host a variety of job fairs as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form. The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program, which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

MDOL Partnering with ID.me to Help Protect Unemployment Claimants

Along with states across the country, the Department has partnered with trusted technology partner ID.me to help bolster current fraud prevention measures and protect unemployment claimants.

ID.me is a secure and safe national portal that Maine will be using to verify the identity of unemployment claimants in our ongoing efforts to detect and prevent fraudulent unemployment claims. This identity verification integration is in addition to current fraud prevention measures and will help to ensure claimants identities are verified before their claim is processed.

Who will be asked to verify their identity?

A claimant may be selected to provide proof of their identity through the secure portal for one of two main reasons:

  1. Their claim was reviewed and contains elements that have been seen in confirmed ID Theft claims. To ensure the claim is legitimate and benefits will be paid to the actual claimant, providing proof of their identity through the ID.me portal may be required.
  2. Per federal guidance in the Continued Assistance Act of 2020, all new Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claims filed after January 31, 2021 are subject to identity verification.

If a claimant must submit ID verification documents, notification will be added to their ReEmployME account, and instructions for completion of the process may be found under Correspondences in their account, as well as sent via regular mail.

They will be asked to create an ID.me account and begin the identity verification process. The Department recommends that claimants create a unique username and password that they have not used for anything else.

Once they complete the identity verification process, the result will be sent back to the Department in real-time. If there are no other issues, the Department will move forward with their claim. If there is still a question about their identity after completing the verification process, ID.me may reach out to the claimant directly for next steps.

ID.me also partners with many federal government agencies, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, and Department of the Treasury. Many other states have partnered with ID.me to help prevent unemployment benefit fraud. According to ID.me, almost 70% of the countrys population is now using the service to verify for unemployment benefits.

More information on the process is on our website: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor launched a website for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The new website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending June 26, the Department cancelled 128 initial claims and nine weekly claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On July 7, 2021 from 10 am-12 p.m., the Lewiston CareerCenter will host an outdoor in-person hiring event featuring local employers. More information: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5110974

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Updates to the "Back to Work" Grant Program Bookmark and Share

July 1, 2021

For Immediate Release: July 1, 2021

Updates to the "Back to Work" Grant Program

AUGUSTA - Based on feedback from employers and job seekers some requirements for the state's Back to Work program are being modified. The $1,500 payment is being extended for the duration of the program June 15- July 25.

The program will now also retroactively cover part-time workers who are working at least 20 hours a week for a single employer and are no longer receiving unemployment benefits. This is based on feedback from those who were working too many hours to be eligible for an unemployment benefit, but not enough hours to be considered full time. If working part-time, the grant amount would be $750, half of the full-time grant.

As awareness of the program increases, interest and participation from employers is gaining momentum, said Commissioner Laura Fortman. By extending the $1,500 grant through the end of the program, we hope that more employers are able to offer this payment to their newly hired employees.

As of June 30, over 100 employers have applied for grants to cover about 300 workers. Of the initial applications, more than 20% were from the accommodation & food services industry, followed closely by administrative & waste services and healthcare & social assistance employers.

The updated eligibility qualifications for the program are now as follows:

For the $1,500 grant, full-time new hires must:

  • Have received unemployment benefits for the week ending May 29, 2021.
  • Have started one full-time job (at least 35 hours per week) in Maine between June 15 and July 25, 2021.
  • Be employed for at least eight weeks, at an hourly wage of less than $25.
  • Not receive unemployment benefits during their period of employment.

For the $750 grant, part-time new hires must:

  • Have received unemployment benefits for the week ending May 29, 2021.
  • Have started one part-time job (at least 20 hours per week) in Maine between June 15 and July 25, 2021.
  • Be employed for at least eight weeks, at an hourly wage of less than $25.
  • Not receive any unemployment benefits during their period of employment.

More information on the Back to Work program, and the application for employers, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/covid19/back-to-work-grants

On the Maine JobLink, employers can log into their accounts and use the Back to Work Employer tag for themselves and their posted jobs to indicate that they are participating in the new Back to Work grant program. Job seekers interested in the program can search the Maine JobLink to see which employers have tagged that they are participating. For assistance with Maine JobLink registration and tagging, call the Maine JobLink Team at 207-623-7967 or email Joblink@maine.gov.

Additionally, Maine CareerCenters are supporting Back to Work employers statewide through individual employer or group hiring events and featured postings on the CareerCenters weekly jobs newsletter. To connect with your local CareerCenters Business Services Team, send an email to MaineAtWork.DOL@maine.gov or call the CareerCenter Hotline at 207-623-7981.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending July 3 Bookmark and Share

July 8, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending July 3

Weekly unemployment claims continue to decline.

AUGUSTA - For the week ending July 3, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,200 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 1,400 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall unemployment continued claims filed each week continue to steadily decline, down roughly 1,350 claims from the previous week. About 9,400 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 9,900 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 15,000 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,100 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Between March 15, 2020 and July 3, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.3 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.7 billion of the $2.3 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 267,300 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 113,100 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.2 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement: Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the MaineJobLink.

CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form. The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program, which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

Health Insurance information from DHHS:

MDOL is helping the Department of Health and Human Services spread the word about health insurance to unemployment claimants: Starting July 1, 2021, consumers who received or are approved to receive unemployment compensation for any week beginning in 2021 may be able to find even lower cost plans and save extra money on out-of-pocket expenses through https://www.healthcare.gov/ .

To take advantage of these additional savings, consumers who received or have been approved for unemployment compensation in 2021 need to visit https://www.HealthCare.gov before August 15th to submit a new application or update their existing application to maximize the savings they can get for the rest of 2021. An average of four out of five current HealthCare.gov consumers will be able to find a plan for $10 or less per month after advance payments of tax credits.

Whether you're uninsured, or have a Marketplace plan and want to save more money on premiums and out-of-pocket costs, make sure to apply or update your application with https://www.HealthCare.gov.

Learn more about what to include as income and how to estimate your income if youre unemployed.

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On July 14, 2021 from 10 am-12 p.m., the Brunswick CareerCenter will host an outdoor in-person hiring event featuring local employers. More information: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5114400

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques. During the week ending June 26, the Department cancelled 1,889 initial claims and five weekly claims suspected to be fraudulent. The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/ .

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending July 10 Bookmark and Share

July 15, 2021

For Immediate Release: July 15, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending July 10

Weekly unemployment claims continue to decline.

AUGUSTA - For the week ending July 10, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,200 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 60 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 1,300 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall unemployment continued claims filed each week continue to steadily decline, down roughly 1,300 claims from the previous week. About 9,000 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 9,600 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 14,500 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,200 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Reminder: Federal unemployment benefits end on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and July 10, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.3 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.76 billion of the $2.3 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 268,500 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 113,200 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.2 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations using this online form. The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/, which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https:/www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On July 21, 2021 from 10 am-12 p.m., the Lewiston CareerCenter will host an outdoor in-person hiring event featuring local employers. More information: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5110975

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft , for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending July 10, the Department cancelled 253 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times. They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Employment Situation in Maine - June 2021 Bookmark and Share

July 16, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 16, 2021

Employment Situation in Maine - June 2021

AUGUSTA The labor market continued to gradually recover in June:

  • Payroll jobs increased by 3,000, mostly in educational services
  • Labor force participation was unchanged
  • The unemployment rate remained at 4.8 percent

Seasonally Adjusted Estimates

Nonfarm Payroll Jobs Estimates The number of nonfarm payroll jobs increased by 3,000 to 614,900 in June and the estimate for May was upwardly revised by 1,300. Most of the June gain was in private and public education.

The number of payroll jobs is up 47,000 from a year-ago. The largest over the year gains were in the leisure and hospitality, retail trade, professional and business services, and manufacturing sectors.

In June there remained 25,100 fewer jobs than in February 2020, before the virus impacted the labor market. In that period Maine had 3.9 percent fewer jobs compared to 4.4 percent fewer nationally. Jobs remained down the most in leisure and hospitality, public and private education (K-12 and higher ed), and healthcare and social assistance than before the pandemic.

Labor Force and Unemployment Estimates The number of unemployed was nearly unchanged at 32,500 and the unemployment rate was 4.8 percent for the fifth consecutive month. (The rate for May was revised up one tenth from 4.7 percent.) The labor force participation rate was unchanged at 60.2 percent.

The unemployment rate decreased from 5.3 percent one year ago, but it remained elevated from the 3.1 percent rate of February 2020. The same is true for labor force participation. The share of the population age 16 and over in the labor force increased one percentage point from a year ago, though it remained 2.4 points lower than in February 2020.

The lower rate of participation in the labor force than before the pandemic continued to cause unemployment data to understate the impact of the decrease in the number of jobs. If participation in June was as high as it was 16 months earlier, the number of unemployed would be 26,400 higher and the unemployment rate would be 8.4 percent.

U.S and New England Unemployment Rates The U.S. and New England unemployment rates were 5.9 percent and 5.4 percent in June. Rates for other states in the region were 2.9 percent in New Hampshire, 3.1 percent in Vermont, 4.9 percent in Massachusetts, 5.9 percent in Rhode Island, and 7.9 percent in Connecticut.

Substate Not Seasonally Adjusted Estimates

The not seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment rate of 5.1 percent for June was unchanged from one year ago. Unemployment rates were lowest in Sagadahoc County (4.1 percent) and highest in Washington County (6.8 percent).

Unemployment rates were below the statewide average in the Portland-South Portland metro area (4.6 percent), close to the average in the Bangor metro (5.0 percent), and above the average in the Lewiston-Auburn metro (5.5 percent).

July workforce estimates will be released Friday, August 20 at 10 a.m. (Data Release Schedule) - https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/releaseDates.html

Monthly workforce estimates are cooperatively produced and released by the Maine Department of Labor, Center for Workforce Research and Information and the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Notes

  1. Preliminary seasonally-adjusted labor force estimates, including rates (labor force participation, employment, and unemployment rates), and levels (labor force, employed, and unemployed) tend to move in a direction for several months and then reverse course. Those directional trends are largely driven by a smoothing procedure and June not indicate a change in underlying workforce conditions. Annual revisions (published in March each year) tend to moderate or eliminate those directional patterns. A comparison of 2020 preliminary and revised estimates of labor force and unemployment rates, as well as nonfarm payroll jobs, is available at maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/2021workforcedata_revisions.pdf

  2. The 90 percent confidence interval for statewide unemployment rates for June is 1.0 percentage points above or below the published estimate.

  3. To assess job growth, we recommend looking at nonfarm jobs from the payroll survey rather than at resident employment from the household survey. The payroll survey is larger, has smaller margins of error, and is subject to smaller revisions. A 2016 blog on the differences in accuracy of the two measures provides more context at maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/imprecise_data.pdf

  4. Nonfarm payroll jobs estimates tend to be volatile from month to month because there is variability in the sample of reporting employers and their representativeness for the universe of all employers. Additionally, seasonal adjustment is imperfect because weather, the beginning and ending of school semesters, holidays, and other events do not always occur with the same timing relative to the pay period that includes the 12th day of the month, which is the reference period. This sometimes exacerbates monthly volatility. Users should look to the trend over multiple months rather than the change from one specific month to another. Estimates for the period from April 2020 to September 2021 will be replaced with actual payroll data in March 2022. Those benchmark revisions are likely to show less volatility than preliminary estimates do.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending July 17 Bookmark and Share

July 22, 2021

For Immediate Release: July 22, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending July 17

AUGUSTA - For the week ending July 17, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,200 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 1,400 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

About 9,400 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 10,000 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 14,600 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,300 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Reminder: Federal unemployment benefits end on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/ as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and July 17, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.3 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.7 billion of the $2.3 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 269,700 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 113,300 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.3 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates

Reminder: Some PUA Claimants must provide proof of employment by August 4

It is a recent federal requirement that anyone who has received PUA benefits beginning with week ending January 2, 2021 must submit proof of employment. This is to show that a claimant was either employed or self-employed when they became unemployed as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic and filed for unemployment benefits.

We sent affected claimants a notice on May 6, 2021 requesting that they submit proof of employment no later than August 4, 2021. This notice and instructions can also be found in their online ReEmployME account. We have also sent reminder emails to those who have not yet uploaded their information through the portal.

The Department asks that affected claimants submit their proof of employment as soon as possible to avoid a possible denial and overpayment of PUA benefits. An overpayment determination would require a claimant to repay any benefits they may have received since the week ending January 2, 2021.

More information and, including a walk-through video, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/puaemployment/.

If a claimant has already submitted the verification documents, they do not need to do so again unless they hear from the Department that it was insufficient. If they submitted documents and received a denial decision, they have the right to appeal - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/appeals/ .

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov .

Upcoming hiring event: On July 28, 2021 from 10 am-12 p.m., the Brunswick CareerCenter will host an outdoor in-person hiring event featuring local employers. More information: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5114401

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending July 17, the Department cancelled 1,008 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Reminder: Some PUA claimants must provide proof of employment by August 4 Bookmark and Share

July 27, 2021

For Immediate Release: July 23, 2021

Reminder: Some PUA claimants must provide proof of employment by August 4

AUGUSTA - The Department of Labor is reminding unemployment claimants that it is a recent federal requirement that anyone who has received PUA benefits beginning with week ending January 2, 2021 must submit proof of employment. This is to show that a claimant was either employed or self-employed when they became unemployed as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic and filed for unemployment benefits

We sent affected claimants a notice on May 6, 2021 requesting that they submit proof of employment no later than August 4, 2021. This notice and instructions can also be found in their online ReEmployME account. We have also sent reminder emails to those who have not yet uploaded their information through the secure portal.More recent PUA claimants will also need to provide proof of employment with a deadline of 21 days after the notice send date, so claimants should regularly check their Correspondence.

The Department asks that affected claimants submit their proof of employment as soon as possible to avoid a possible denial and overpayment of PUA benefits. An overpayment determination would require a claimant to repay any benefits they may have received since the week ending January 2, 2021.

More information, including a walk-through video of how to upload the documents, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/puaemployment/ .

If a claimant has already submitted the verification documents, they do not need to do so again unless they hear from the Department that it was insufficient. If they submitted documents and received a denial decision, they have the right to appeal: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/appeals/ .

Unemployment Texting Scam Alert Bookmark and Share

July 27, 2021

The Maine Department of Labor is warning the public of scammer's attempts to phish individuals personal information via text message while posing as the Department. They will usually include links claiming to lead to information about unemployment benefits, which do not end in '.gov.

The Department is asking the public stay vigilant - it does not conduct business via text, and will never ask for sensitive information via social media or text message. If an individual receives a text message about unemployment benefits, or from someone claiming to be the Department of Labor or Bureau of Unemployment Compensation, it is a scam and should be ignored.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending July 24 Bookmark and Share

July 29, 2021

For Immediate Release: July 29, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending July 24

AUGUSTA - For the week ending July 24, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 900 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 1,200 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall unemployment continued claims were down about 1,600 claims from the previous week. About 8,200 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 9,700 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 14,500 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,100 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Reminder: Federal unemployment benefits end on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of job fairs as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and July 24, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.3 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.7 billion of the $2.3 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 270,600 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 113,400 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.3 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations at this online form- https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

IMPORTANT: Some PUA Claimants must provide proof of employment by August 4

It is a recent federal requirement that anyone who has received PUA benefits beginning with week ending January 2, 2021 must submit proof of employment. This is to show that a claimant was either employed or self-employed when they became unemployed as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic and filed for unemployment benefits.

We sent affected claimants a notice on May 6, 2021 requesting that they submit proof of employment no later than August 4, 2021. This notice and instructions can also be found in their online ReEmployME account. We have also sent reminder emails to those who have not yet uploaded their information through the portal.

The Department asks that affected claimants submit their proof of employment as soon as possible to avoid a possible denial and overpayment of PUA benefits. An overpayment determination would require a claimant to repay any benefits they may have received since the week ending January 2, 2021.

More information and, including a walk-through video, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/puaemployment/ .

If a claimant has already submitted the verification documents, they do not need to do so again unless they hear from the Department that it was insufficient. If they submitted documents and received a denial decision, they have the right to appeal - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/appeals/ .

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov .

Upcoming hiring event: On August 4, 2021 from 10 am-12 p.m., the Brunswick CareerCenter will host an outdoor in-person hiring event featuring local employers. More information and a list of participating employers can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5214101

Unemployment Texting Scam Alert

The Maine Department of Labor is warning the public of scammer's attempts to phish individuals personal information via text message while posing as the Department. They will usually include links claiming to lead to information about unemployment benefits, which do not end in '.gov.

The Department is asking the public stay vigilant - it does not conduct business via text and will never ask for sensitive information via social media or text message. If an individual receives a text message about unemployment benefits, or from someone claiming to be the Department of Labor or Bureau of Unemployment Compensation, it is a scam and should be ignored.

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending July 24, the Department cancelled 467 initial claims and two weekly claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

August Programs and Hiring Events at the Maine Department of Labor CareerCenters Bookmark and Share

July 29, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 29, 2021

August Programs and Hiring Events at the Maine Department of Labor CareerCenters

MAINE - The Maine Department of Labor's CareerCenters, together with its partners, offers many services to help people find employment or upgrade skills, and help employers find qualified workers.

Due to COVID-19, many services are being offered virtually, while in-person services are currently being offered by appointment only. Hiring events are being offered virtually, drive-through, or in person. Appointments or pre-registration can be made by calling 1-888-457-8883 or by live-chatting with staff on the https://www.mainecareercenter.gov website.

The following services and programs are available at no cost to the public:

  • Career Directions Explores your career interests, aptitudes, values, personality, motivation and how each transfer to todays job market.

  • Resume & Cover Letter Writing Covers the basics of how to evaluate or create an effective resume and cover letter.

  • Effective Interviewing Skills Dedicated to exploring proper interviewing techniques and tips.

  • Job Search Essentials - This workshop is intended to orient job seekers with the digital tools that have risen in importance

  • The Career Exploration WorkshopAn extensive and informative three-day workshop offered to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) clients to explore a variety of career paths and research the required skills needed for those careers. Registration through Vocational Rehabilitation is required. Please call (207) 753-9000 for more information.

  • Navigating Hiring Process for Individuals with a Criminal History - Navigating Job Search and Hiring Process for Individuals with a Criminal History

  • And MORE!

Workshops can be accessed by clicking on them here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/workshops.shtml

August Hiring Events:

  • August 4, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Brunswick - Maine CareerCenters Outside Hiring Event

  • August 5, 2021 from 2-4 p.m. Maine CareerCenters Statewide All-Sector Virtual Hiring Event

  • August 6, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Hinckley CM Almy hiring Event

  • August 10, 2021 from 9-11 a.m. York County Employers Virtual Hiring Fair (South Coastal)

  • August 11, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Lewiston - Maine CareerCenters Outside Hiring Event

  • August 26, 2021 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Augusta Maine Hire-A-Vet Hiring Event at the Augusta Civic Center

  • And more are added all the time!

More information about hiring events can be found by clicking on the event at https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/

Apprenticeship Opportunity:

For more information on Apprenticeship, including additional Apprenticeship opportunities and a list of Apprenticeship Sponsors by County, visit: https://www.maine.gov/labor/jobs_training/apprenticeship/

Reminder: Federal unemployment benefits end on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of job fairs as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Each of the twelve statewide centers provides public computers with internet access, Microsoft Office, resume/cover letter writing software, and O*Net software for personal skills assessment. Employers can list their open positions on Maine JobLink and use our online system which matches jobs with candidates. All CareerCenter services are provided at no charge to employers and job seekers. Veterans and eligible spouses receive priority of service in all Department of Labor programs.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending July 31 Bookmark and Share

August 5, 2021

For Immediate Release: August 5, 2021

** Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending July 31**

AUGUSTA - For the week ending July 31, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 800 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 1,000 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall unemployment continued claims continue to decrease. About 8,200 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 9,700 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 14,500 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,100 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Reminder: Federal unemployment benefits end on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of job fairs as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and July 31, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.3 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.8 billion of the $2.3 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 271,400 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 113,600 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.3 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html .

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/ .

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

New CWRI Article on Pandemic Job Impact by Educational Attainment

MDOL's Center for Workforce Research and Information (CWRI) has published a new article titled Maines Labor Market During the Pandemic: Job Impact by Educational Attainment.

Some highlights include: - The labor market recovery in Maine has been robust but uneven - The lingering effects of job loss remain most concentrated among young people and those without a college education - Between the third quarter of 2019 (before the pandemic) and the third quarter of 2020, workers under 25 experienced the sharpest job reduction (down 17.6 percent) - Jobs were down approximately ten percent among workers with a high school diploma or equivalent or no diploma, 8.7 percent for those with some college or an associates degree, and 7.4 percent for those with a bachelors degree or higher (among those age 25 and over)

The full post can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/ImpactbyEducationalAttainment.pdf

Other recent blog articles can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/pubs.html

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov .

Upcoming hiring event: On August 10, 2021 from 9 am-11 a.m., the York County CareerCenter and Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host a virtual hiring event featuring local employers. More information can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5217597

Unemployment Texting Scam Alert

The Maine Department of Labor is warning the public of scammers attempts to phish individuals personal information via text message while posing as the Department. They will usually include links claiming to lead to information about unemployment benefits, which do not end in '.gov.

The Department is asking the public stay vigilant - it does not conduct business via text and will never ask for sensitive information via social media or text message. If an individual receives a text message about unemployment benefits, or from someone claiming to be the Department of Labor or Bureau of Unemployment Compensation, it is a scam and should be ignored.

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques. During the week ending July 31, the Department cancelled 277 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/ .

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

2021 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign Kick-Off Event and State's Largest Hiring Fair to be Held August 26 Bookmark and Share

August 5, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 5, 2021

2021 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign Kick-Off Event and State's Largest Hiring Fair to be Held August 26

The campaigns goal is for 100+ employers to hire 100+ veterans during 100 days.

AUGUSTA - Maines annual Hire-A-Vet campaign - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/mhav/ , a statewide effort to commit at least 100 employers to hire at least 100 veterans and military family members during a 100-day period, is kicking off with an in-person hiring fair from noon to 4 p.m. on August 26 at the Augusta Civic Center, 76 Civic Center Drive.

Preceding the hiring fair, at 10 a.m., there will be a "Kickoff Opening Ceremony" featuring guest speakers such as MDOL Commissioner Laura Fortman.

The campaign is expecting to feature over 100 hiring employers and resource providers at the kickoff event, which is open to all job seekers, not just veterans.

Veterans have received valuable training during their military service that can transfer to in-demand civilian skills, said Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman. The Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign is one tool we use to connect veterans with employers, and employers with the skilled workforce they are looking for. I encourage any veteran, or military spouse, searching for their next job, or an employer searching for their next employee, to consider participating in this years campaign, which will feature both in-person and virtual events.

The Maine Hire-A-Vet campaign provides support for employers to expand the hiring of veterans through a network of state and federal agencies, resources and nonprofits, education on military language and culture, recruiting and hiring assistance, and recognition for the hiring and advancement of veterans and military family members.

Employers can sign up to participate, and get more information, here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/mhav/ . Employer registrations are due by August 20 in order to ensure space.

This years campaign will feature both in-person and virtual hiring events. The kickoff event will conform to current CDC COVID-19 guidance as of the day of the event.

During the entirely virtual 2020 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign - https://www.maine.gov/labor/news_events/article.shtml?id=4351630 , 226 employers participated, and 145 veterans and military family members were hired.

Since 2015, the Maine Department of Labor-Bureau of Employment Services Veterans Team, along with key partners, has been proud to facilitate the connection of 1,500 veteran jobseekers with over 900 great Maine employers! It has also been recognized as a best practice by the United States Department of Labor (USDOL) and the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA). During this time, average wages have increased from $17.43 per hour in 2015 to $23.92 per hour in 2020.

The Maine Hire A Vet Campaign is a partnership between the Maine Department of Labor and its CareerCenters, Destination Occupation, Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, National Guard Employment Support Program, and the Augusta Civic Center. Learn more at https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/hireavet.shtml, and follow the campaign on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mainehireavet

The 2021 Hire A Vet Campaign is made possible by the following: Bath Iron Works, Maine Department of Corrections, Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, Evergreen Home Performance, Moodys Collision Centers, Hancock Lumber, Reed & Reed, Northern Light Health, Destination Occupation.

Veterans, military family members and civilians seeking assistance in job search and training are encouraged to contact their closest Maine CareerCenter, which can be found online at https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/locations. Veterans Representatives and Career Counselors are available at each location.

Federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Claimants Who Did Not Submit Required Documents to Receive Eligibility Denial Bookmark and Share

August 6, 2021

For Immediate Release: August 6, 2021

Federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Claimants Who Did Not Submit Required Documents to Receive Eligibility Denial

Those who failed to provide documents can appeal the decision and provide documents within 15 days.

AUGUSTA - About 7,400 unemployment claimants who had received federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits did not provide federally required retroactive documentation by their August 4 deadline. They will be sent a decision denying their eligibility for the PUA program and warning of a possible requirement to repay benefits received. They will receive detailed information and next steps in the mail and in their ReEmployME online account correspondence.

Those who receive a denial decision and believe that they were eligible for the benefits they received can appeal - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/appeals/ the decision and upload the requested documents within 15 days of the decision. To upload, they can log in to their ReEmployME account and click on 'Correspondences.' They can then select the correspondence titled "PUAP21" or PUAP90 and follow the instructions on how to upload documents for review. Uploading documents does not guarantee the denial decision will be re-determined, and an appeal must still be filed.

A denial decision and overpayment determination would require a claimant to repay any PUA benefits they received since the week ending January 2, 2021. They would also need to repay any Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (additional weekly $300) benefits that were paid for those weeks.

Background: As previously announced - https://www.maine.gov/labor/news_events/article.shtml?id=4575669 , it is a federal requirement that anyone who has received PUA benefits beginning with week ending January 2, 2021 must submit retroactive proof of employment to show that they were either employed or self-employed when they became unemployed as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

We sent affected claimants a notice on May 6, 2021 requesting that they submit proof of employment no later than August 4, 2021. This notice and instructions could also be found in their online ReEmployME account. We also sent periodic reminder emails and mailed a second notice to those who had not yet provided their information.

If someone did not collect PUA benefits in 2020 but filed for PUA after 01/31/2021 (including if they are filing a claim for the first time now) they will get a similar notice that requires them to provide the documentation within 21 days of the notice mailing date - claimants should regularly check the correspondence tab in their ReEmployME account and look closely at what their deadline date is if they receive a letter.

More information on how to upload documents, including a walk-through video, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/puaemployment/.

Maine DOL Participating in U.S. Digital Service UI Service Modernization Research Project Bookmark and Share

August 9, 2021

For Immediate Release: August 9, 2021

Maine DOL Participating in U.S. Digital Service UI Service Modernization Research Project

AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Labor (MDOL) is announcing that, along with eight other states, it is participating in a U.S. Digital Service (USDS) - https://www.usds.gov/ research project aimed at modernizing the unemployment insurance service system nationwide.

"Today's workforce is very different from the 1930s when the unemployment insurance program was created. Although, the unemployment insurance program has provided tens of thousands of unemployed Maine workers the necessary funds to feed their families and meet basic needs, the pandemic has revealed cracks in this critical economic stabilizer. The program needs policy and technology updates to be prepared for and flexible in the face of future economic challenges," Commissioner Laura Fortman said. The UI Service Modernization research project is an exciting opportunity for states to work together toward long-term solutions. By participating in this new initiative, Maine will help shape the future of unemployment insurance. We are also committed to using this opportunity to explore ways to strengthen the bridge between temporary unemployment benefits and robust reemployment services.

The two-year research project, which is sponsored by U.S. DOL, will gather input from participating states to help determine what is needed for both shared services and state specific processes.

Goals of the project include:

  • Fight fraud utilizing federal data and cybersecurity resources
  • Federal support implementing federal programs
  • Improve timeliness and accuracy and reduce friction around claim adjudication and appeals to improve customer experience
  • Reduce tech burden on states with federally offered IT services as needed
  • Rethink customer experience metrics and incentives to add focus on claimant and employer experiences

USDS are designers, engineers, product managers, and procurement experts from diverse backgrounds across the public and private sectors. USDS partners with civil servants to solve critical technology challenges across the government.

MDOL Extends Deadline for 'Back to Work' Grant Program to Provide Employers More Time to Submit Applications Bookmark and Share

August 11, 2021

For Immediate Release: August 11, 2021

MDOL Extends Deadline for 'Back to Work' Grant Program to Provide Employers More Time to Submit Applications

AUGUSTA -The Maine Department of Labor (MDOL) announced today that it is extending the application deadline for the States "Back to Work" grant program to Friday, August 20, 2021. The extension will allow employers who did not file their application by the original August 6, 2021 deadline an additional two weeks to do so.

The program, launched in June 2021 as a short-term grant program to provide Maine businesses with another tool for attracting jobseekers, provides businesses with up to $1,500 grants to offer to qualifying new hires who accepted a job between June 15, 2021 and July 25, 2021.

As of August 6th, 386 employers are participating in the program with the Department finding more than 400 employees provisionally eligible, meaning that if they complete at least eight weeks at their new job they will receive the grant funding. Employees dont need to have completed the full eight weeks required to be eligible before the employer applies - the payroll verification to confirm length of employment will take place at a later stage. Of the 386 employers who have participated in the program, 41 percent were smaller businesses with less than 20 employees.Whileemployerparticipation crossed multiple industries,themost represented industries were healthcare and social assistance (19 percent), accommodation and food services (18 percent) and retail trade (13 percent).Employers from every county in the state applied for the program.

The Back to Work grant program is one of many tools we are using to help connect employers with job seekers, said Laura Fortman, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Labor. With Maine demonstrating that it is one of the safest states in the nation, Maine people are continuing to get back to work in steady numbers, and this program, which complements our other workforce programs, gave businesses one more tool to help attract new hires. We hope this two-week application deadline extension will give businesses more time to get any lingering applications in so we can maximize the help we are able to provide. In the meantime, CareerCenters have helped hundreds of employers refine job postings to reflect pandemic changes they made to recruit employees including updating benefits, increasing wages and providing flexible scheduling opportunities.

I am pleased that nearly 400 employers around the state, almost half of which were small businesses, took advantage of the Back to Workprogram, said Heather Johnson, Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development. Maine, like all states, is confronting a workforce shortage worsened by the pandemic, and we are pleased we were able to provide this tool alongside our other efforts to help get people back to work. We remain committed to finding solutions to the barriers that remain to families returningwork.

Maine added 11,200 jobs during the first quarter of 2021 and overall unemployment claims are steadily declining. During July 2021, unemployment claims dropped by about 2,000. Meanwhile,CareerCenterstaff assisted over 1,300 jobseekers with one-on-one basic employment services,546 jobseekers honed their skills by attending virtual re-employment focusedCareerCenterworkshops,and467 jobseekersconnectedwith employmentopportunitiesthroughvirtual and in-personhiring events.

Next Steps for Employers:

Employers now have through August 20 to submit applications for people hired between June 15 and July 25, 2021. After August20, the Back to Work application program will close and no new applications will be considered.

Once new provisionally eligible employees complete eight weeks of work,employers must then submit proof of payroll to verify their eligibility. Once that is completedand approved, the grant funds will be released to the employer to give to theiremployees. As a final step, employers will need to provide proof of payment to demonstrate the grant funds were passed along to the employee.

More information on the Back to Work program, including access to the application and detailed eligibility requirements, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/covid19/back-to-work-grants

Other Resources for Jobseekers and Employers:

The Maine CareerCenters - https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/

  • Offers both jobseeker and employer services
  • Employers:To connect with your localCareerCentersBusiness Services Team, send an email to DOL@maine.gov or call theCareerCenterHotline at 207-623-7981.
  • Jobseekers:CareerCentershost a variety ofhiring eventsas well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. TheCareerCentercan be reached by email atCareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

The Maine JobLink: - https://joblink.maine.gov/

  • Jobseekers can post their resume and search open jobs, and employers can post their open positions and browse resumes for free.
  • In July 2021, just over 24,000 unique visitors used MaineJobLink. Nearly 12,900 of users connected through targeted E-Blast campaigns featuring regional jobpostings, training opportunities, and hiring events.

The Re-Employment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) program: - https://www.maine.gov/labor/resea/

  • Launched in April 2021,the Department hasselected nearly 2,900 claimants to participate in opportunities such as one-on-one coaching and other relevant services to assist with reemployment by the end of the calendar year.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending August 7 Bookmark and Share

August 12, 2021

For Immediate Release: August 12, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending August 7

AUGUSTA - For the week ending August 7, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 800 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 1,000 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall unemployment continued claims continue to decrease, decreasing about 640 from the previous week. About 7,900 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 9,500 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 14,400 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,100 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Reminder: Federal unemployment benefits end on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/ as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and August 7, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.4 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.8 billion of the $2.4 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 272,200 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 113,700 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.4 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ , to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those by using the following online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

MDOL Extends Deadline for 'Back to Work' Grant Program to Provide Employers More Time to Submit Applications

MDOL announced - https://www.maine.gov/labor/news_events/article.shtml?id=5325338 that it is extending the application deadline for the State's "Back to Work" grant program to Friday, August 20, 2021. The extension will allow employers who did not file their application by the original August 6, 2021 deadline an additional two weeks to do so.

The program, launched in June 2021 as a short-term grant program to provide Maine businesses with another tool for attracting jobseekers, provides businesses with up to $1,500 grants to offer to qualifying new hires who accepted a job between June 15, 2021 and July 25, 2021.

As of August 6th, 386 employers are participating in the program with the Department finding more than 400 employees provisionally eligible, meaning that if they complete at least eight weeks at their new job they will receive the grant funding. Employees dont need to have completed the full eight weeks required to be eligible before the employer applies - the payroll verification to confirm length of employment will take place at a later stage. Of the 386 employers who have participated in the program, 41 percent were smaller businesses with less than 20 employees. While employer participation crossed multiple industries, the most represented industries were healthcare and social assistance (19 percent), accommodation and food services (18 percent) and retail trade (13 percent). Employers from every county in the state applied for the program.

Maine added 13,700 jobs so far in 2021 and overall unemployment claims are steadily declining. During July 2021, unemployment claims dropped by about 2,000. Meanwhile, CareerCenter staff assisted over 1,300 jobseekers with one-on-one basic employment services, 546 jobseekers honed their skills by attending virtual re-employment focused CareerCenter workshops, and 467 jobseekers connected with employment opportunities through virtual and in-person hiring events.

Next Steps for Employers:

Employers now have through August 20 to submit applications for people hired between June 15 and July 25, 2021. After August20, the Back to Work application program will close and no new applications will be considered.

Once new provisionally eligible employees complete eight weeks of work,employers must then submit proof of payroll to verify their eligibility. Once that is completedand approved, the grant funds will be released to the employer to give to theiremployees. As a final step, employers will need to provide proof of payment to demonstrate the grant funds were passed along to the employee.

More information on the Back to Work program, including access to the application and detailed eligibility requirements, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/covid19/back-to-work-grants

Maine DOL Participating in U.S. Digital Service UI Service Modernization Research Project

MDOL announced - https://www.maine.gov/labor/news_events/article.shtml?id=5307650 that, along with eight other states, it is participating in a U.S. Digital Service (USDS) - https://www.usds.gov/ research project aimed at modernizing the unemployment insurance service system nationwide.

The two-year research project, which is sponsored by U.S. DOL, will gather input from participating states to help determine what is needed for both shared services and state specific processes.

Goals of the project include:

  • Fight fraud utilizing federal data and cybersecurity resources
  • Federal support implementing federal programs
  • Improve timeliness and accuracy and reduce friction around claim adjudication and appeals to improve customer experience
  • Reduce tech burden on states with federally offered IT services as needed
  • Rethink customer experience metrics and incentives to add focus on claimant and employer experiences

USDS are designers, engineers, product managers, and procurement experts from diverse backgrounds across the public and private sectors. USDS partners with civil servants to solve critical technology challenges across the government.

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov .

Upcoming hiring event: On August 15, 2021 from 10 am-2 p.m., the United States Postal Service will be holding a hiring event at the Bath Post Office, 750 Washington Street, in Bath. More information can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5296966

Reminder: those who receive a denial letter for not providing required documents have 15 days to appeal the decision

As previously announced - https://www.maine.gov/labor/news_events/article.shtml?id=5304036 , about 7,400 unemployment claimants who had received federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits did not provide federally required retroactive documentation by their August 4 deadline. They have been sent a decision denying their eligibility for the PUA program and warning of a possible requirement to repay benefits received. Detailed information and next steps were sent in the mail and in their ReEmployME online account correspondence.

Those who receive a denial decision and believe that they were eligible for the benefits they received can appeal - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/appeals/ the decision and upload the requested documents within 15 days of the decision. To upload, they can log in to their ReEmployME account and click on 'Correspondences.' They can then select the correspondence titled "PUAP21" or PUAP90 and follow the instructions on how to upload documents for review. Uploading documents does not guarantee the denial decision will be re-determined, and an appeal must still be filed.

A denial decision and overpayment determination would require a claimant to repay any PUA benefits they received since the week ending January 2, 2021. They would also need to repay any Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (additional weekly $300) benefits that were paid for those weeks.

If someone did not collect PUA benefits in 2020 but filed for PUA after 01/31/2021 (including if they are filing a claim for the first time now) they will get a similar notice that requires them to provide the documentation within 21 days of the notice mailing date - claimants should regularly check the correspondence tab in their ReEmployME account and look closely at what their deadline date is if they receive a letter.

More information on how to upload documents, including a walk-through video, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/puaemployment/.

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending August 7, the Department cancelled 198 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending August 14 Bookmark and Share

August 19, 2021

For Immediate Release: August 19, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending August 14

AUGUSTA - For the week ending August 14, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 800 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 900 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall, weekly unemployment claims continue to decrease, with about 1,800 fewer claims filed last week than the week before that. About 7,900 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 7,700 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 14,300 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 2,900 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/ .

Reminder: Federal unemployment benefits end on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/ as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and August 14, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.4 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.8 billion of the $2.4 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 273,000 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 113,800 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.4 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html .

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/ .

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ , to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On August 26, 2021 from noon -4 p.m., the Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign will kick off with a hiring fair at the Augusta Civic Center. The opening ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. More information can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/mhav/

Reminder: those who receive a denial letter for not providing required documents have 15 days to appeal the decision

As previously announced - https://www.maine.gov/labor/news_events/article.shtml?id=5304036 , claimants who do not provide required documentation by their individual deadline are sent a decision denying their eligibility for the PUA program and warning of a possible requirement to repay benefits received. Detailed information and next steps were sent in the mail and in their ReEmployME online account correspondence.

Those who receive a denial decision and believe that they were eligible for the benefits they received can appeal - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/appeals/ the decision and upload the requested documents within 15 days of the decision. To upload, they can log in to their ReEmployME account and click on 'Correspondences.' They can then select the correspondence titled "PUAP21" or PUAP90 and follow the instructions on how to upload documents for review. Uploading documents does not guarantee the denial decision will be re-determined, and an appeal must still be filed.

A denial decision and overpayment determination would require a claimant to repay any PUA benefits they received since the week ending January 2, 2021. They would also need to repay any Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (additional weekly $300) benefits that were paid for those weeks.

If someone did not collect PUA benefits in 2020 but filed for PUA after 01/31/2021 (including if they are filing a claim for the first time now) they will get a similar notice that requires them to provide the documentation within 21 days of the notice mailing date - claimants should regularly check the correspondence tab in their ReEmployME account and look closely at what their deadline date is if they receive a letter.

More information on how to upload documents, including a walk-through video, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/puaemployment/ .

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending August 14, the Department cancelled 90 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/ .

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Employment Situation in Maine - July 2021 Bookmark and Share

August 20, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 20, 2021

Employment Situation in Maine - July 2021

AUGUSTA The employment situation in Maine continued to gradually improve in July from the effects of the pandemic:

  • Payroll jobs increased by 1,200
  • Labor force participation increased
  • The unemployment rate was little changed at 4.9 percent

Seasonally Adjusted Estimates

Nonfarm Payroll Jobs Estimates The number of nonfarm payroll jobs increased by 1,200 to 617,500 in July and the estimate for June was upwardly revised by 1,400. Over the two-month period the state gained 5,600 jobs. Most of the July gain was in the public education and professional and business services sectors. Those and smaller gains in other sectors were partly offset by a decrease leisure and hospitality jobs, which partially reversed a large gain in June.

(The pandemic has disrupted normal seasonal buildup and layoff patterns in some sectors. Job gains in the leisure and hospitality sector were larger than usual in June and somewhat less than usual in July, causing a decrease in jobs in the sector in July after seasonal adjustment. In public education the number of jobs was lower than usual preceding the end of the school year, so the smaller than usual seasonal decrease in July was an increase after seasonal adjustment.)

The number of payroll jobs increased 40,800 from a year-ago. The largest over the year gains were in the leisure and hospitality, manufacturing, retail trade, professional and business services, and public and private education sectors.

In July there remained 22,500 fewer jobs than in February 2020, before the virus impacted the labor market. The 3.5 percent net decrease during that period is close to the 3.7 percent U.S. decrease. Jobs remained down the most in leisure and hospitality, public and private education (K-12 and higher ed), and healthcare and social assistance than in the month before the pandemic began to impact the state.

There were more jobs in the professional and business services and wholesale trade sectors in July than before the pandemic, and several other sectors were close to pre-pandemic levels.

Labor Force and Unemployment Estimates The number of unemployed increased 700 in July to 33,200 and the unemployment rate edged up to 4.9 percent. The small increase in unemployment occurred because labor force participation increased slightly more than employment did. The labor force participation rate increased 0.3 percentage points to 60.4 percent to the highest rate in 12 months; the employment to population ratio increased 0.2 points to 57.4 percent to the highest rate in 16 months.

Compared to February 2020, the unemployment rate in July was 1.8 percentage points higher, the labor force participation rate was 2.2 points lower, and the employment to population ratio was 3.3 points lower

The decrease in employment since February 2020 is partially reflected in the 11,500 increase in the number of unemployed. The remainder of the decrease in employment is reflected in lower labor force participation. If participation was as high in July as 17 months earlier, the unemployment rate would be 8.3 percent. (Unemployed are jobless people who were available and seeking work. Jobless people who were not available for work due to health, childcare, or other reasons, or who did not seek work are not considered to be in the labor force and are not counted as unemployed.)

U.S and New England Unemployment Rates The U.S. and New England unemployment rates were 5.4 percent and 5.2 percent in July. Rates for other states in the region were 2.9 percent in New Hampshire, 3.0 percent in Vermont, 4.9 percent in Massachusetts, 5.8 percent in Rhode Island, and 7.3 percent in Connecticut.

Substate Not Seasonally Adjusted Estimates

The not seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment rate of 5.0 percent for July was down from 8.4 percent one year ago. Unemployment rates were lowest in Knox, Lincoln, and Sagadahoc counties (4.3 percent) and highest in Somerset County (7.3 percent).

Unemployment rates were below the statewide average in the Portland-South Portland metro area (4.5 percent), at the average in the Bangor metro (5.0 percent), and above the average in the Lewiston-Auburn metro (5.7 percent).

August workforce estimates will be released Friday, September 17 at 10 a.m. (Data Release Schedule - https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/releaseDates.html ).

Monthly workforce estimates are cooperatively produced and released by the Maine Department of Labor, Center for Workforce Research and Information and the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.

NOTES

  1. Preliminary seasonally-adjusted labor force estimates, including rates (labor force participation, employment, and unemployment rates), and levels (labor force, employed, and unemployed) tend to move in a direction for several months and then reverse course. Those directional trends are largely driven by a smoothing procedure and may not indicate a change in underlying workforce conditions. Annual revisions (published in March each year) tend to moderate or eliminate those directional patterns. A comparison of 2020 preliminary and revised estimates of labor force and unemployment rates, as well as nonfarm payroll jobs, is available at maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/2021workforcedata_revisions.pdf

  2. The 90 percent confidence interval for statewide unemployment rates for July is 0.9 percentage points above or below the published estimate.

  3. To assess job growth, we recommend looking at nonfarm jobs from the payroll survey rather than at resident employment from the household survey. The payroll survey is larger, has smaller margins of error, and is subject to smaller revisions. A 2016 blog on the differences in accuracy of the two measures provides more context at maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/imprecise_data.pdf

  4. Nonfarm payroll jobs estimates tend to be volatile from month to month because there is variability in the sample of reporting employers and their representativeness for the universe of all employers. Additionally, seasonal adjustment is imperfect because weather, the beginning and ending of school semesters, holidays, and other events do not always occur with the same timing relative to the pay period that includes the 12th day of the month, which is the survey reference period. This sometimes exacerbates monthly volatility. Users should look to the trend over multiple months rather than the change from one specific month to another. Estimates for the period from April 2020 to September 2021 will be replaced with actual payroll data in March 2022. Those benchmark revisions are likely to show less volatility than preliminary estimates do.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending August 21 Bookmark and Share

August 26, 2021

For Immediate Release: August 26, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending August 21

AUGUSTA - For the week ending August 21, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 750 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 960 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall, weekly unemployment claims continue to decrease, with about 200 fewer claims filed last week than the week before that. About 7,500 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 7,880 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 14,300 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 3,200 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Reminder: Federal unemployment benefits end on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/ as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and August 21, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.4 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.8 billion of the $2.4 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 273,750 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 113,950 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.45 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ , to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations at this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming virtual hiring event: On September 2, 2021 from 2 -4 p.m., the Maine CareerCenters will host a statewide virtual hiring event, featuring a variety of employers and industries. More information, and registration, can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5328886

Reminder: those who receive a denial letter for not providing required documents have 15 days to appeal the decision.

As previously announced - https://www.maine.gov/labor/news_events/article.shtml?id=5304036 , claimants who do not provide required documentation by their individual deadline are sent a decision denying their eligibility for the PUA program and warning of a possible requirement to repay benefits received. Detailed information and next steps were sent in the mail and in their ReEmployME online account correspondence.

Those who receive a denial decision and believe that they were eligible for the benefits they received can appeal - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/appeals/ the decision and upload the requested documents within 15 days of the decision. To upload, they can log in to their ReEmployME account and click on 'Correspondences.' They can then select the correspondence titled "PUAP21" or PUAP90 and follow the instructions on how to upload documents for review. Uploading documents does not guarantee the denial decision will be re-determined, and an appeal must still be filed.

A denial decision and overpayment determination would require a claimant to repay any PUA benefits they received since the week ending January 2, 2021. They would also need to repay any Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (additional weekly $300) benefits that were paid for those weeks.

If someone did not collect PUA benefits in 2020 but filed for PUA after 01/31/2021 (including if they are filing a claim for the first time now) they will get a similar notice that requires them to provide the documentation within 21 days of the notice mailing date - claimants should regularly check the correspondence tab in their ReEmployME account and look closely at what their deadline date is if they receive a letter.

More information on how to upload documents, including a walk-through video, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/puaemployment/ .

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending August 21, the Department cancelled 86 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

The Center for Workforce Research and Information has launched a new website: Maine Employers and Employment by Size and Industry https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/qcew4.html

Explore this dataset of private employers who are classified in the data by total number of jobs (size class). These data can be used to better understand how employers of different sizes comprise Maine's labor market, by industry and by region. The interactive data visualization contains three ways to view the data. On the first tab, data users can view the total number of employer establishments by size and industry. On the second tab, data users can see how many employer establishments there are of various sizes in each county throughout the state. The third tab displays data on employment by size class, which can be used to better understand how jobs are distributed across employer establishments of different sizes.

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times. They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html. They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending August 28 Bookmark and Share

September 2, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending August 28

Weekly claims are the lowest since March 2020

AUGUSTA - For the week ending August 28, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 700 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 900 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall, weekly unemployment claims continue to decrease, with almost 300 fewer claims filed last week than the week before that. The number of weekly claims filed were the lowest since March 2020. About 7,000 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 8,000 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 14,400 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 2,800 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. In many cases, people receiving unemployment benefits can work part-time and still retain the $300 weekly Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) offered by Congress through September 4, 2021. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Reminder: Federal unemployment benefits end on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/ as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and August 28, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.4 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.8 billion of the $2.4 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 274,500 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 114,000 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.4 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming virtual hiring event: On September 8, 2021 from 10 a.m. - noon, the Lewiston CareerCenter will host an outdoor hiring event, featuring a variety of local employers and industries. More information can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5332483

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending August 28, the Department cancelled 96 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else. The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times. They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html. They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Maine Department of Labor Encourages Employers to Evaluate Hiring Strategies to Remove Barriers Bookmark and Share

September 7, 2021

For Immediate Release: September 7, 2021

Maine Department of Labor Encourages Employers to Evaluate Hiring Strategies to Remove Barriers

MDOL's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation partners with employers to match them with Maines underemployed

AUGUSTA- Designed to meet Maines immediate and ongoing workforce needs, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) is helping Mainers with disabilities seize job opportunities and employers find the talent they need in this tight labor market. September is Workforce Development Month, and it comes at a time when the country is experiencing a challenging labor market.

"As the economy continues to improve, the Maine Department of Labor is focused on connecting employers with the jobseekers they need to thrive, including those who have often been left on the sidelines," said MDOL Commissioner Laura Fortman. "I encourage businesses to have equal and inclusive hiring policies, to re-evaluate hiring barriers that have often prevented applicants from consideration, and to consider working with our Department. There are many people who are eager to gain employment and contribute to their communities, yet hiring barriers prevent them from doing so."

Maines Department of Labor announced in July that 16,300 jobs had been added since the beginning of 2021, yet many employers are struggling to fill vacancies. The programs goal is to connect employers to historically underemployed Mainers to gain new traction and ease the labor challenges Maine businesses are facing.

DVR matches employers with employees through informational interviews, job shadows, paid work experiences, and on-the-job training. With todays immediate need for workers, the states goal is to facilitate relationships with employers as they navigate a tight labor market, and to create opportunities for Mainers with disabilities to establish viable career pathways.

In 2020, DVR served over 9,000 individuals through job placement and training, continuing education, and on-site job support.

"This program is a win-win," said Dan Roy, District Manager for Sodexo, a global food service provider, and a large Maine employer. "Sodexo is committed to long-term team building-- DVR's program helps with our retention efforts and also positions new employees for continued professional growth."

"Sodexo made the hiring process simple for me. They've been great to work with," said Eric Vorous, who was recently hired as a barista at the University of Maine at Farmington cafe through the DVR program.

Businesses interested in partnering with the Department of Labor to participate in this program and create new employment opportunities can call 1-855-ALL-HIRE.

More information on the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/rehab/dvr/vr.shtml

Photo: Eric Vorous in his Sodexo uniform.

Eric Vorous in his Sodexo uniform.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending September 4 Bookmark and Share

September 9, 2021

For Immediate Release: September 9, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending September 4

Week ending September 4 is the last week of federal unemployment benefits.

AUGUSTA - For the week ending September 4, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 700 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 900 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall, weekly unemployment claims continue to decrease. About 6,800 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 8,200 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 14,500 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 2,800 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Federal unemployment benefits ended on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/ as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and September 4, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.4 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.8 billion of the $2.4 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 275,100 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 114,200 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.5 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/, which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On September 16, 2021 from 10 a.m. - noon, the Southern Midcoast CareerCenter in Brunswick will host an outdoor hiring event, featuring a variety of local employers and industries. More information and a list of participating employers can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5332485

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft, for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending September 4, the Department cancelled 117 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times. They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html. They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending September 4 Bookmark and Share

September 9, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending September 4

Week ending September 4 is the last week of federal unemployment benefits.

AUGUSTA - For the week ending September 4, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 700 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 900 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall, weekly unemployment claims continue to decrease. About 6,800 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 8,200 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 14,500 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 2,800 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Federal unemployment benefits ended on September 4, 2021. The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of job fairs - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/ as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and September 4, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.4 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.8 billion of the $2.4 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 275,100 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 114,200 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.5 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink, to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations here - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On September 16, 2021 from 10 a.m. - noon, the Southern Midcoast CareerCenter in Brunswick will host an outdoor hiring event, featuring a variety of local employers and industries. More information and a list of participating employers can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5332485

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending September 4, the Department cancelled 117 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html. They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Maine's Annual Tea Celebrating Deaf Culture Happening September 16 Bookmark and Share

September 14, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 13, 2021

Maine's Annual Tea Celebrating Deaf Culture Happening September 16

AUGUSTA - In celebration of Deaf culture and the heritage of American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf literature, art and folklore, Governor Janet T. Mills has issued a proclamation designating the week of Sept. 19 through 25, 2021, as Deaf Culture Week. The Commission for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Late Deafened will hold its 30th Annual Deaf Culture Award Ceremony and Tea virtually on September 16 from 2 to 4 p.m.

"The Deaf community has its own language, culture, history and traditions which have shaped our state for generations. The many contributions of Deaf people to the State of Maine should be celebrated," said Governor Mills. I am honored to declare September 19 through September 25 as Deaf Culture Week and thank the Department of Labor for recognizing the achievements of all Maine people.

The 30th Annual Award Ceremony and Tea will take place on Sept. 16, 2021, from 2 to 4 p.m., virtually on Zoom: https://mainestate.zoom.us/j/81735561737.

*Note: Room will be opened for attendees at 1:45PM.

This year, the commission will present seven awards in six categories to individuals who have contributed to Deaf culture in Maine. Award recipients are:

  • Citizenship Youth Award Marlaco Bethune
  • Special Recognition Award Nirav D. Shah, M.D., J.D., Director, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention
  • Ginny Hewes Advocate for the Needs of the Deaf Community Award Melinda Stamp
  • Outstanding Citizenship Award Craig Hamilton Taylor
  • Special Commendation Award Maine Hands & Voices
  • Special Recognition Award Dr. Toni H. Rees
  • Clifton F. Rodgers Lifetime Achievement Award Melinda Smith Meyers

Emma Foster will give the keynote address.

The Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Late Deafened, part of the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) in the Maine Department of Labor, works to bring about full access to employment, independence and community integration for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

I encourage employers to diversify their workforce by harnessing the many skills and experiences of people with disabilities, Mills said. The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services can assist both workers and employers through vocational rehabilitation, training assistance and advice.

For more information about hiring people with disabilities or identifying job training resources for people with disabilities, visit your local CareerCenter, call 1-855-ALL-HIRE (TTY users call Maine Relay 711).

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending September 11 Bookmark and Share

September 16, 2021

For Immediate Release: September 16, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending September 11

AUGUSTA - During the week ending September 11, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 600 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). The PUA initial claims were those that were originally filed under the regular state program in a prior week, subsequently found ineligible for state unemployment, and then moved to the PUA program. These PUA claims have an effective date prior to the close of the program. The initial claims numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 700 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

Overall, weekly unemployment claims continue to decrease, down almost 2,600 from the previous week. About 5,800 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 7,700 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 13,300 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly claims are filed after the end of the actual week. Therefore, the claims filed this week were for weeks ending September 4 or earlier. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 1,800 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Federal unemployment benefits ended on September 4, 2021. This covers the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation (MEUC), and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits. Claims for weeks that end on or before September 4, 2021 will still be paid after that date, assuming all eligibility criteria are met.

The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/, as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and September 11, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.4 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.8 billion of the $2.4 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 275,700 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 114,300 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.5 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ , to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/, which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov .

Upcoming hiring event: On September 22, 2021 from 10 a.m. - noon, the Lewiston CareerCenter will host an outdoor hiring event, featuring a variety of local employers and industries. More information and a list of participating employers can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5332484

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft, for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending September 11, the Department cancelled 61 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Maine Dept. of Labor Publishes Findings on Job Seekers' Barriers to Returning to Work Bookmark and Share

September 16, 2021

For Immediate Release: September 16, 2021

Maine Dept. of Labor Publishes Findings on Job Seekers' Barriers to Returning to Work

Survey responses from over 2,600 individuals reflect virus concerns, lack of childcare and transportation, mismatch in skill sets and available jobs among top barriers

AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Labor today released the results of a July 2021 survey of unemployment insurance claimants and active jobseekers about barriers preventing them from returning to work. In total, more than 2,600 individuals responded to the anonymous survey, describing a variety of barriers impacting their ability to rejoin the workforce, including concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic, a lack of access to child care and transportation, and a mismatch between their own skills and available jobs, among others.

"This survey reinforces the fact that there is no one size fits all solution to getting Maine people back to work and that our approach has to address underlying issues impacting our workforce," said Commissioner Laura Fortman. "The Department of Labor will continue to listen to the voices of Maine workers as we strive to enhance our programs to ensure they are effective, both at meeting the needs of employers and employees and in contributing to our economic recovery as a state."

Survey responses show that there is no single barrier keeping people out of the workforce. The most commonly cited barriers included:

  • "Lack of opportunities that match my skillset"
  • "COVID health risks or concerns"
  • "Job quality concerns" regarding insufficient wages, lack of benefits, unpredictable schedule or lack of long-term positions
  • Inaccessibility of relevant opportunities including lack of relevant jobs in the local area
  • Lack of necessary social supports including lack of reliable childcare and transportation

Other barriers cited were age-related discrimination, challenges getting interviews in the competitive market, and self-employment challenges related to economic recession.

"On behalf of our 218,000 members in the state, AARP Maine applauds the release of this important study by the Maine Department of Labor," said Nol Bonam, AARP Maine State Director. "According to a 2018 AARP survey - https://www.aarp.org/work/working-at-50-plus/info-2019/age-discrimination-in-america.html, 76 percent of older workers see age discrimination as a hurdle to finding a new job. Age-bias and the other obstacles raised in the Departments study will serve as a gateway to improve opportunities for Mainers of all ages as they seek employment."

"Employers across the state are looking to hire in this challenging labor market," said Matthew Lewis, President and CEO of HospitalityMaine. "We recognize that there are significant barriers that many job seekers are facing as they look to rejoin the workforce. These are challenges that we will need to work together to solve. There are currently many opportunities in the hospitality industry, and we are committed to working with state agencies and other employers on creative solutions."

"Maine workers face challenges balancing work and family amidst a surging global pandemic. We applaud the Maine Department of Labor for hearing directly from workers on the systemic issues they face in finding good jobs," said Matt Schlobohm, Executive Director of the Maine AFL-CIO. "The most tried and true method to recruit and retain workers is to offer good pay and benefits. We've heard firsthand from lots of Maine workers that age discrimination, COVID related workplace health and safety, reliable and affordable childcare and access to living wage jobs with benefits remain significant challenges. We must continue working together to address these systemic issues."

The Maine Department of Labor provides workshops, local and virtual hiring events and postings on Maine JobLink to help connect workers to job opportunities, but the survey will help the Departments approach to getting Maine people back to work. To that end, the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan proposed by the Governor and enacted by the Legislature earlier this summer includes significant federal investment to address many of the barriers cited by Maine workers in the Departments survey, including investment in training and skills-building opportunities and infrastructure such as housing, childcare and transportation.

The full findings of the survey, which was also translated into French, Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, and Vietnamese, can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/docs/2021/BarrierstoemploymentFindings%20and%20Analysis091321.pdf

More information from AARP: https://www.aarp.org/work/working-at-50-plus/age-discrimination/

U.S. Department of Labor Confirms Forthcoming Vaccination or Test Requirement Will Apply to Public Sector Employers in Maine Bookmark and Share

September 17, 2021

For Immediate Release: September 17, 2021

U.S. Department of Labor Confirms Forthcoming Vaccination or Test Requirement Will Apply to Public Sector Employers in Maine

AUGUSTA - The U.S. Department of Labor has informed the Maine Department of Labor that its forthcoming COVID-19 vaccination requirement will apply to public sector employers in Maine, including state, county, and local governments and public school systems.

Last week, President Biden announced that he has directed OSHA to develop a rule requiring all employers with 100 or more employees to ensure their workforce is fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or require any workers who remain unvaccinated to produce a negative COVID-19 test result on at least a weekly basis before coming to work. OSHA will issue an Emergency Temporary Standard to implement this requirement.

While this Emergency Temporary Standard applies to private employers nationwide, the Maine Department of Labor sought clarification from OSHA about the rule's applicability to public employers because, under longstanding State law and a 2015 agreement with the Federal government - https://www.osha.gov/stateplans/me, known as a "state plan," Maine is required to adopt and enforce for public employers all of OSHAs occupational safety and health standards.

Under an approved OSHA plan, the Maine Department of Labor is designated as the state agency responsible for the development and enforcement of occupational safety and health standards applicable to state and local government employment throughout the state. Meanwhile, Federal OSHA enforces standards in Maines private sector employment.

Maine is one of 26 states and two territories to have a state plan agreement with the Federal government.

OSHA confirmed with the Maine Department of Labor that the forthcoming Emergency Temporary Standard will apply to public sector employers with 100 or more employees in Maine and the 25 other states and two territories with a state OSHA plan.

In Maine, these public entities include: State and local governments, public school systems, the University of Maine System, the Maine Community College System, Maine Maritime Academy, the Maine Turnpike Authority, and sewer and water districts.

The Maine Board of Occupational Safety and Health is required to adopt and enforce OSHAs forthcoming rule for public employers within 30 days of the rules release. OSHAs standards are considered minimum requirements, so states may implement more rigorous standards but cannot implement less rigorous standards than those set out by OSHA.

OSHA has yet to release its Emergency Temporary Standard so the timeframe and details of its implementation are unknown at this time. The Maine Department of Labor will continue to communicate with impacted stakeholders and the public as more information becomes available from the Federal government.

Employment Situation in Maine - August 2021 Bookmark and Share

September 17, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 17, 2021

Contact: Glenn Mills 207-621-5192

Employment Situation in Maine - August 2021

AUGUSTA There was little change in the employment situation through the summer. In August:

  • Payroll jobs decreased by 1,200
  • The unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.9 percent

Seasonally Adjusted Estimates

Nonfarm Payroll Jobs Estimates The number of nonfarm payroll jobs decreased by 1,200 to 617,200 in August and the estimate for July was upwardly revised by 900. Government jobs decreased 1,100, mostly in local governments, and private sector jobs decreased 100. An increase of 800 jobs in healthcare and social assistance was offset by small decreases in several other sectors during the month.

The recovery has followed a stairstep pattern of rising numbers of jobs followed by periods of relative flatness. Job gains from April to September 2020 were followed by little change through the rest of the year. Gains in early 2021, especially in March, gave way to flatness the following two months. A sharp gain in June was followed by a relatively flat summer. These periods of flatness have paralleled increasing coronavirus case counts and periods of job gains have paralleled decreasing case counts. This has also been the pattern nationally.

Over the last year the number of payroll jobs increased 31,500. The largest gains were in the leisure and hospitality, manufacturing, retail trade, and professional and business services sectors.

In August there remained 22,800 fewer jobs than in February 2020, before the virus impacted the labor market. The 3.6 percent net decrease during that period is close to the 3.5 percent U.S. decrease. In that period jobs remained down the most in leisure and hospitality, state and local government education (K-12 and higher ed), and healthcare and social assistance. There were more jobs in the professional and business services and wholesale trade sectors in August than before the pandemic.

Labor Force and Unemployment Estimates The number of unemployed was unchanged in August at 33,200 and the unemployment rate remained at 4.9 percent. The 60.3 percent labor force participation rate was little changed, down 0.1 points, and the 57.4 percent employment-to-population rate was unchanged.

Compared to February 2020, the unemployment rate in August was 1.8 percentage points higher, the labor force participation rate was 2.3 points lower, and the employment to population ratio was 3.3 points lower.

The decrease in employment since February 2020 is partially reflected in the 11,600 increase in the number of unemployed. The remainder of the decrease in employment is reflected in lower labor force participation. If participation was as high in August as 17 months earlier, the unemployment rate would be 8.4 percent. (Unemployed are jobless people who were available and seeking work. Jobless people who were not available for work or who did not seek work are not counted as unemployed they are not in the labor force.)

U.S and New England Unemployment Rates The U.S. and New England unemployment rates were 5.2 percent and 5.3 percent in August. Rates for other states in the region were 3.0 percent in New Hampshire, 3.0 percent in Vermont, 5.0 percent in Massachusetts, 5.8 percent in Rhode Island, and 7.2 percent in Connecticut.

Substate Not Seasonally Adjusted Estimates

The not seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment rate of 4.4 percent for August was little changed from 4.3 percent one year ago. Unemployment rates were lowest in Sagadahoc County (3.8 percent) and highest in Somerset and Washington counties (6.2 percent).

Unemployment rates were below the statewide average in the Portland-South Portland metro area (3.9 percent), close to the average in the Bangor metro (4.5 percent), and above the average in the Lewiston-Auburn metro (5.1 percent).

September workforce estimates will be released Friday, October 22 at 10 a.m. (Data Release Schedule - https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/releaseDates.html).

Monthly workforce estimates are cooperatively produced and released by the Maine Department of Labor, Center for Workforce Research and Information and the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.

NOTES

  1. Preliminary seasonally-adjusted labor force estimates, including rates (labor force participation, employment, and unemployment rates), and levels (labor force, employed, and unemployed) tend to move in a direction for several months and then reverse course. Those directional trends are largely driven by a smoothing procedure and may not indicate a change in underlying workforce conditions. Annual revisions (published in March each year) tend to moderate or eliminate those directional patterns. A comparison of 2020 preliminary and revised estimates of labor force and unemployment rates, as well as nonfarm payroll jobs, is available at https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/2021workforcedata_revisions.pdf

  2. The 90 percent confidence interval for statewide unemployment rates for August is 0.8 percentage points above or below the published estimate.

  3. To assess job growth, we recommend looking at nonfarm jobs from the payroll survey rather than at resident employment from the household survey. The payroll survey is larger, has smaller margins of error, and is subject to smaller revisions. A 2016 blog on the differences in accuracy of the two measures provides more context at https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/imprecise_data.pdf

  4. Nonfarm payroll jobs estimates tend to be volatile from month to month because there is variability in the sample of reporting employers and their representativeness for the universe of all employers. Additionally, seasonal adjustment is imperfect because weather, the beginning and ending of school semesters, holidays, and other events do not always occur with the same timing relative to the pay period that includes the 12th day of the month, which is the survey reference period. This sometimes exacerbates monthly volatility. Users should look to the trend over multiple months rather than the change from one specific month to another. Estimates for the period from April 2020 to September 2021 will be replaced with actual payroll data in March 2022. Those benchmark revisions are likely to show less volatility than preliminary estimates do.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending September 18 Bookmark and Share

September 23, 2021

For Immediate Release: September 23, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending September 18

AUGUSTA - During the week ending September 18, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 600 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). The PUA initial claims were those that were originally filed under the regular state program in a prior week, subsequently found ineligible for state unemployment, and then moved to the PUA program. These PUA claims have an effective date prior to the close of the program. The initial claims numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 700 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

About 8,100 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 400 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 600 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly claims are filed after the end of the actual week. Therefore, the claims filed this week for the federal PUA and PEUC programs were for weeks ending September 4 or earlier. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 1,200 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Federal unemployment benefits ended on September 4, 2021. This covers the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation (MEUC), and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits. Claims for weeks that end on or before September 4, 2021 will still be paid after that date, assuming all eligibility criteria are met.

The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/ , as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov , by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and September 18, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.49 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.88 billion of the $2.49 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 276,300 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 114,400 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.5 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ , to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On September 30, 2021 from 10 a.m. - noon, the Southern Midcoast CareerCenter in Brunswick will host an outdoor hiring event, featuring a variety of local employers and industries. More information and a list of participating employers can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5332486

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft , for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending September 18, the Department cancelled 52 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday. Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times.

They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html . They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

Per State Law, Maine's Minimum Wage to Increase to $12.75 Per Hour in 2022 Bookmark and Share

September 23, 2021

For Immediate Release: September 23, 2021

Per State Law, Maine's Minimum Wage to Increase to $12.75 Per Hour in 2022

AUGUSTA - Pursuant to Maine law (Maine statute 26 MRS 664), effective January 1, 2022, the state minimum wage will increase from $12.15 to $12.75 per hour, based on data recently made available by the U.S. Department of Labors Bureau of Labor Statistics. Maine law requires annual adjustments to the minimum wage based on the cost of living index (CPI-W) for the Northeast Region.

In addition to the minimum wage, the new "tip wage," or service employee minimum wage, in 2022 will be $6.38 per hour. This means that service employees must receive at least a direct cash wage of $6.38 per hour from the employer. The employer must be able to show that the employee receives at least the minimum wage of $12.75 per hour when the direct wage and tips are combined at the end of the week. More information on the service employee minimum wage can be found here: http://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/26/title26sec664.html

The minimum salary threshold for exempting a worker from overtime pay is also based on the minimum wage. Starting January 1, 2022, the new minimum salary threshold is $735.59 per week, or $38,251 per year. This is only one of the factors used in determining whether a worker is exempt from overtime pay under federal or state law. An individual can earn more than the minimum salary threshold and still be eligible for overtime. The duties of each worker must be considered as part of this analysis. The law can be found here: http://legislature.maine.gov/legis/statutes/26/title26sec664.html More information can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/labor_laws/wagehour.html

The Departments Bureau of Labor Standards is responsible for enforcing the states minimum wage and overtime statutes and ensuring that both workers and employers understand and comply with the law.

If youre a worker who feels that your rights have been violated, or an employer who has questions or would like to know more about the Departments free trainings, please call 207-623-7900, email mdol@maine.gov, or visit https://www.maine.gov/labor/bls/index.shtml.

NASWA Announces 2021-2022 Board of Directors Bookmark and Share

September 29, 2021

The National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) announced the election of its 2021-2022 association year board of directors. NASWA membership, which represents state and U.S. territory workforce agencies nationwide, selected 15 new board members and 10 alternate members to represent its regions, including a five-member executive committee. The board's duties are to direct the business of the association.

Read the news release.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending September 25 Bookmark and Share

September 30, 2021

For Immediate Release: September 30, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending September 25

AUGUSTA - During the week ending September 25, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 500 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). The PUA initial claims were those that were originally filed under the regular state program in a prior week, subsequently found ineligible for state unemployment, and then moved to the PUA program. These PUA claims have an effective date prior to the close of the program. The initial claims numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 700 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

About 6,800 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 100 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 100 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly claims are filed after the end of the actual week. Therefore, the claims filed this week for the federal PUA and PEUC programs were for weeks ending September 4 or earlier. Eligibility for benefits is determined on a weekly basis, and so not all weekly claims filed result in a benefit payment. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 1,100 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. Claimants who are working part-time and working back to their full hours may be eligible for partial benefits. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Federal unemployment benefits ended on September 4, 2021. This covers the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation (MEUC), and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits. Claims for weeks that end on or before September 4, 2021 will still be paid after that date, assuming all eligibility criteria are met.

The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/ , as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and September 25, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.49 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.88 billion of the $2.49 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 276,800 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 114,500 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.5 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Work Search Requirement:

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ , to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Other Updates:

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On October 6, 2021 from 10 a.m. - noon, the Lewiston CareerCenter will host an outdoor hiring event, featuring a variety of local employers and industries. More information can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5653450

Per State Law, Maine's Minimum Wage to Increase to $12.75 Per Hour in 2022

Pursuant to Maine law (Maine statute 26 MRS 664), effective January 1, 2022, the state minimum wage will increase from $12.15 to $12.75 per hour, based on data recently made available by the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. Maine law requires annual adjustments to the minimum wage based on the cost of living index (CPI-W) for the Northeast Region.

In addition to the minimum wage, the new "tip wage," or service employee minimum wage, in 2022 will be $6.38 per hour. This means that service employees must receive at least a direct cash wage of $6.38 per hour from the employer. The employer must be able to show that the employee receives at least the minimum wage of $12.75 per hour when the direct wage and tips are combined at the end of the week. More information on the service employee minimum wage can be found here: http://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/26/title26sec664.html

The minimum salary threshold for exempting a worker from overtime pay is also based on the minimum wage. Starting January 1, 2022, the new minimum salary threshold is $735.59 per week, or $38,251 per year. This is only one of the factors used in determining whether a worker is exempt from overtime pay under federal or state law. An individual can earn more than the minimum salary threshold and still be eligible for overtime. The duties of each worker must be considered as part of this analysis. The law can be found here: http://legislature.maine.gov/legis/statutes/26/title26sec664.html More information can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/labor_laws/wagehour.html

The Departments Bureau of Labor Standards is responsible for enforcing the states minimum wage and overtime statutes and ensuring that both workers and employers understand and comply with the law.

If youre a worker who feels that your rights have been violated, or an employer who has questions or would like to know more about the Departments free trainings, please call 207-623-7900, email mdol@maine.gov, or visit https://www.maine.gov/labor/bls/index.shtml .

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft , for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending September 25, the Department cancelled 49 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/ .

MDOL Recommends Unemployment Claimants Call Thursdays and Fridays

If unemployment claimants have a question about their claim, the Department recommends that they call the unemployment phone line, 1-800-593-7660, between 8 am and 3 pm Monday-Friday.

Call wait times continue to decrease on all days, however Thursdays and Fridays remain the days when call volume is at its lowest and usually have shorter wait times. They can also leave a message 24/7 at https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html. They should only put in one message to avoid duplication.

October Programs and Hiring Events at the Maine Department of Labor CareerCenters Bookmark and Share

October 1, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 1, 2021

October Programs and Hiring Events at the Maine Department of Labor CareerCenters

MAINE - The Maine Department of Labor's CareerCenters, together with its partners, offers many services to help people find employment or upgrade skills, and help employers find qualified workers.

Due to COVID-19, many services are being offered virtually, while in-person services are currently being offered by appointment. Hiring events are being offered virtually, drive-through, or in person. Appointments or pre-registration can be made by calling 1-888-457-8883 or by live-chatting with staff on the https://www.mainecareercenter.gov website.

October Hiring Events:

  • October 6, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Lewiston - Maine CareerCenters Outside Hiring Event
  • October 14, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Brunswick Maine CareerCenters Outside Hiring Event
  • October 16, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Augusta NRF Outside Hiring Event
  • October 20, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Lewiston Maine CareerCenters Outside Hiring Event
  • October 21, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Virtual Maine Hire-A-Vet Hiring Event
  • October 28, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Brunswick Maine CareerCenters Outside Hiring Event
  • And more are added all the time!

More information about hiring events can be found by clicking on the event at https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/

The following services and programs are available at no cost to the public:

  • Career Directions Explores your career interests, aptitudes, values, personality, motivation and how each transfer to todays job market.
  • Resume & Cover Letter Writing Covers the basics of how to evaluate or create an effective resume and cover letter.
  • Effective Interviewing Skills Dedicated to exploring proper interviewing techniques and tips.
  • Job Search Essentials - This workshop is intended to orient job seekers with the digital tools that have risen in importance
  • The Career Exploration WorkshopAn extensive and informative three-day workshop offered to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) clients to explore a variety of career paths and research the required skills needed for those careers. Registration through Vocational Rehabilitation is required. Please call (207) 753-9000 for more information.
  • Navigating Hiring Process for Individuals with a Criminal History - Navigating Job Search and Hiring Process for Individuals with a Criminal History
  • And MORE!

Workshops can be accessed by clicking on them here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/workshops.shtml

Each of the twelve statewide centers provides public computers with internet access, Microsoft Office, resume/cover letter writing software, and O*Net software for personal skills assessment. Employers can list their open positions on Maine JobLink and use our online system which matches jobs with candidates. All CareerCenter services are provided at no charge to employers and job seekers. Veterans and eligible spouses receive priority of service in all Department of Labor programs.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending October 2 Bookmark and Share

October 7, 2021

For Immediate Release: October 7, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending October 2

Weekly claims are at the lowest level since December 2019

AUGUSTA - During the week ending October 2, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 600 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). Initial unemployment claims typically begin to increase during this time of year due to seasonal layoffs. The PUA initial claims were those that were originally filed under the regular state program in a prior week, subsequently found ineligible for state unemployment, and then moved to the PUA program. These PUA claims have an effective date prior to the close of the program.

The initial claims numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 750 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

About 5,900 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 100 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 50 weekly certifications were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly claims are filed after the end of the actual week. Therefore, the claims filed this week for the federal PUA and PEUC programs were for weeks ending September 4 or earlier. Eligibility for benefits is determined on a weekly basis, and so not all weekly claims filed result in a benefit payment. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 900 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. Claimants who are working part-time and working back to their full hours may be eligible for partial benefits. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Federal unemployment benefits ended on September 4, 2021. This covers the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation (MEUC), and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits. Claims for weeks that end on or before September 4, 2021 will still be paid after that date, assuming all eligibility criteria are met.

The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/, as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and October 2, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.49 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.88 billion of the $2.49 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 277,400 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 114,500 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.5 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

U.S. Labor Secretary Walsh Visits Maine, Highlights WorkShare Program

Tuesday, October 5, U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Martin Walsh joined Governor Mills, MDOL Commissioner Laura Fortman, Speaker Ryan Fecteau, and employers and employees who have used Maine's WorkShare program to discuss how the program has helped businesses retain or bring back their workforce during the pandemic. The Roundtable discussion took place at Bowdoin College.

The program allows employers to voluntarily reduce work hours across a group of employees, rather than fully layoff a smaller subset of the employees. Workers keeps their jobs and keep benefits like health insurance. WorkShare then helps to offset lost wages with partial unemployment insurance benefits.

Workshare was also adapted to be used not just for layoff prevention, but as a reopening tool. A business that had to temporarily downsize its workforce could restart or ramp up business operations sooner by recalling their former employees at partially reduced work schedule through a WorkShare program. Temporarily laid off employees could return to their jobs sooner and collect a partial unemployment benefit to offset the initial reduction in hours.

During the pandemic, employers experience rating was not impacted by Workshare participation. The federal CARES Act funded benefits paid through this program during the pandemic, totaling over $15 million as of October 1, 2021.

  • Only 26 states in the country have a WorkShare program (other states may call the program Short-Time Compensation)
  • Prior to the pandemic, only 1-2 employers typically participated in the program per year

But from March 2020 through September 2021:

  • 246 employers across Maine participated in the program
  • 5,029 employees worked reduced hours and received partial unemployment benefits, which prevented the layoff of 3,044 people

Employers interested in the WorkShare program can find more information here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On October 14, 2021 from 10 a.m. - noon, the Southern Midcoast CareerCenter in Brunswick will host an outdoor hiring event, featuring a variety of local employers and industries. More information can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5653452

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ , to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft , for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending October 2, the Department cancelled 51 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending October 9 Bookmark and Share

October 14, 2021

For Immediate Release: October 14, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending October 9

Weekly claims are at the lowest level since early December 2019

AUGUSTA - During the week ending October 9, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 800 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 100 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). Initial unemployment claims typically begin to increase during this time of year due to seasonal layoffs. The PUA initial claims were those that were originally filed under the regular state program in a prior week, subsequently found ineligible for state unemployment, and then moved to the PUA program. These PUA claims have an effective date prior to the close of the program.

The initial claims numbers represent claim applications; claims are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 950 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

About 5,400 weekly claims were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 100 weekly claims filed under PUA. In addition, about 50 weekly claims were filed for the federal Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. Weekly claims are filed after the end of the actual week. Therefore, the claims filed this week for the federal PUA and PEUC programs were for weeks ending September 4 or earlier. Eligibility for benefits is determined on a weekly basis, and so not all weekly claims filed result in a benefit payment. During week ending October 9, about 3,800 people received an unemployment benefit payment. Weekly certifications must be filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits.

For the same time period, roughly 800 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. Claimants who are working part-time and working back to their full hours may be eligible for partial benefits. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Federal unemployment benefits ended on September 4, 2021. This covers the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation (MEUC), and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits. Claims for weeks that end on or before September 4, 2021 will still be paid after that date, assuming all eligibility criteria are met.

The Department recommends that claimants take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/, as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email at MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Between March 15, 2020 and October 9, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.49 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.88 billion of the $2.49 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 278,200 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 114,600 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.5 million weekly certifications filed.

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Other Updates

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On October 20, 2021 from 10 a.m. - noon, the Lewiston CareerCenter will host an outdoor hiring event, featuring a variety of local employers and industries. More information, including participating employers, can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5653451

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ , to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Fraud Update

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft , for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending October 9, the Department cancelled 51 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

In partnership with Maine State Treasurer, Bangor Savings Bank Launches Maine ABLE Benefit CheckingSM for People with Disabilities Bookmark and Share

October 18, 2021

For more information, please read the bangor.com article.

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending October 16 Bookmark and Share

October 16, 2021

For Immediate Release: October 16, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending October 16

Weekly claims are at the lowest level since November 2019

AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Labor announced today that during week ending October 16 about 3,400 people received an unemployment benefit payment. This represents a decrease of about 400 people from last week. This week also had the lowest level of weekly claims since November 2019.

During the week ending October 16, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 600 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, representing a decrease of about 200 claims from the previous week. The Department also recorded 50 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), representing a decrease of about 50 claims from the previous week.

Initial claims numbers represent claim applications, which are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 700 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim, representing a decrease of about 150 people from last week.

About 4,800 weekly claims were filed last week for state unemployment, representing a decrease of about 600 weekly claims. Another 50 weekly claims were filed under federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), which is unchanged from the previous week.

Not all weekly claims filed result in a benefit payment because eligibility is determined on a weekly basis, with certifications filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits. Of the 4,800 weekly claims filed, about 3,400 people received an unemployment benefit payment.

Weekly claims are filed after the end of the actual week. Therefore, the claims filed this week for the federal PUA and PEUC programs were for weeks ending September 4 or earlier. The PUA initial claims were those that were originally filed under the regular state program in a prior week, subsequently found ineligible for state unemployment, and then moved to the PUA program. These PUA claims have an effective date prior to the close of the program.

For the same time period, roughly 800 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. Claimants who are working part-time and working back to their full hours may be eligible for partial benefits. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Between March 15, 2020 and October 16, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.49 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.88 billion of the $2.49 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 278,750 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 114,650 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.5 million weekly certifications filed.

Please note that beginning in November MDOL will transition back to its pre-COVID practice of only publicly posting its unemployment claims numbers on its website every Thursday at 8:30 a.m., which coincides with the posting of national claims numbers. The information can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html .

In addition, the official state unemployment rate is released each month. September's information will be released tomorrow morning, October 22. The state unemployment rate is different than unemployment insurance claims and is a better indicator of ongoing economic and labor market conditions. It will be available on our website here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/laus.html .

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

Other Updates

New CWRI article From Unemployment to Reemployment in 2020

The Center for Workforce Research and Information (CWRI) has published a new article titled From Unemployment to Reemployment in 2020. It examines the status of claimants for unemployment compensation from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic at the end of 2020. The full publication can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/publications/pdf/Unemployment_Reemployment.pdf

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On October 28, 2021 from 10 a.m. - noon, the Southern Midcoast CareerCenter in Brunswick will host an outdoor hiring event, featuring a variety of local employers and industries. More information, including participating employers, can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5653454

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ , to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

The Department recommends that jobseekers take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email atMaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Fraud Update - FBI False Unemployment Website PSA

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a Public Service Announcement to help the public identify and report false unemployment websites: https://www.ic3.gov/Media/Y2021/PSA211015 . Cyber criminals have created these spoofed websites to collect personal and financial data from US victims. These spoofed websites imitate the appearance of and can be easily mistaken for legitimate websites offering unemployment benefits.

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft , for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending October 16, the Department cancelled 47 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

Employment Situation in Maine - September 2021 Bookmark and Share

October 22, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 22, 2021

Contact: Glenn Mills 207-621-5192

Employment Situation in Maine - September 2021

AUGUSTA The surge in coronavirus cases continued to set the jobs recovery back in September:

  • There were 3,000 fewer nonfarm payroll jobs than in August and 6,500 fewer than in July

  • Unemployment and labor force participation rates were little changed at 4.8 and 60.4 percent

Seasonally Adjusted Estimates

Nonfarm Payroll Jobs Estimates The number of nonfarm payroll jobs decreased by 3,000 to 611,900 in September and the estimate for August was revised from a decrease of 1,200 to a decrease of 3,500 jobs. In September there were 6,500 fewer jobs than in July, which currently stands as the pandemic-era peak. The number of jobs was similar to levels from March through May.

One-third of the September decrease was in public and private education, K-12 and higher ed. Most of the rest of the decrease was spread across manufacturing, professional and business services, healthcare and social assistance, and other services.

The coronavirus has had a clear impact on the jobs recovery over the last year. Surges in case counts stalled the recovery in the fall of 2020 and in the spring of 2021. The delta variant surge contributed to the net decrease in jobs over the last two months.

Over the last year the number of payroll jobs increased 12,100. The largest gains were in the leisure and hospitality, professional and business services, and wholesale and retail trade sectors.

In September there were 28,100 fewer jobs than in February 2020, before the virus impacted the labor market. In that period jobs remained down the most in leisure and hospitality, state and local government education (K-12 and higher ed), and healthcare and social assistance.

Labor Force and Unemployment Estimates The unemployment rate was little changed in September at 4.8 percent, representing 32,900 job seekers. The unemployment rate has been 4.8 or 4.9 percent each of the last eight months. The 60.4 percent labor force participation rate was little changed, up 0.1 points.

Compared to February 2020, the unemployment rate in September was 1.7 percentage points higher and the labor force participation rate was 2.2 points lower.

The decrease in employment since February 2020 is partially reflected in the 11,300 increase in the number of unemployed. The remainder of the decrease in employment is reflected in lower labor force participation. If participation was as high in September as 19 months earlier, the unemployment rate would be 8.2 percent. (Unemployed are jobless people who were available and seeking work. Jobless people who were not available for work or who did not seek work are not counted as unemployed they are not in the labor force.)

U.S and New England Unemployment Rates The U.S. and New England unemployment rates were 4.8 and 5.2 percent in September. Rates for other states in the region were 2.9 percent in New Hampshire, 2.9 percent in Vermont, 5.2 percent in Massachusetts, 5.2 percent in Rhode Island, and 6.8 percent in Connecticut.

Substate Not Seasonally Adjusted Estimates

Unemployment rates were below the statewide average in the Portland-South Portland (3.5 percent) and Bangor metro areas (3.8 percent), and above the average in the Lewiston-Auburn metro (4.4 percent).

October workforce estimates will be released Friday, November 19 at 10 a.m. (Data Release Schedule).

This release is available here.

Labor force and unemployment data is available here.

Nonfarm payroll jobs data is available here.

Monthly workforce estimates are cooperatively produced and released by the Maine Department of Labor, Center for Workforce Research and Information and the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.

NOTES

  1. Preliminary seasonally-adjusted labor force estimates, including rates (labor force participation, employment, and unemployment rates), and levels (labor force, employed, and unemployed) tend to move in a direction for several months and then reverse course. Those directional trends are largely driven by a smoothing procedure and may not indicate a change in underlying workforce conditions. Annual revisions (published in March each year) tend to moderate or eliminate those directional patterns. A comparison of 2020 preliminary and revised estimates of labor force and unemployment rates, as well as nonfarm payroll jobs, is available at maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/2021workforcedata_revisions.pdf

  2. The 90 percent confidence interval for statewide unemployment rates for September is 0.8 percentage points above or below the published estimate.

  3. To assess job growth, we recommend looking at nonfarm jobs from the payroll survey rather than at resident employment from the household survey. The payroll survey is larger, has smaller margins of error, and is subject to smaller revisions. A 2016 blog on the differences in accuracy of the two measures provides more context at maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/imprecise_data.pdf

  4. Nonfarm payroll jobs estimates tend to be volatile from month to month because there is variability in the sample of reporting employers and their representativeness for the universe of all employers. Additionally, seasonal adjustment is imperfect because weather, the beginning and ending of school semesters, holidays, and other events do not always occur with the same timing relative to the pay period that includes the 12th day of the month, which is the survey reference period. This sometimes exacerbates monthly volatility. Users should look to the trend over multiple months rather than the change from one specific month to another. Estimates for the period from April 2020 to September 2021 will be replaced with actual payroll data in March 2022. Those benchmark revisions are likely to show less volatility than preliminary estimates do.

MDOC, MDOL Partnering to Help Inmates Reenter Employment Bookmark and Share

October 10, 2019

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 10, 2019

WINDHAM-Maine's Department of Corrections (MDOC) and Department of Labor (MDOL) partnered for the third time to offer employers an informative seminar about the role MDOC can play in helping develop their future workforce.

The second Helping Inmates Reenter Employment (H.I.R.E.) ME seminar took place at the Southern Maine Women's Reentry Center in Windham, and then the Maine Correctional Center, on Wednesday, Oct. 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"During this record time of low unemployment, employers are searching for skilled workers. Now is the perfect time to showcase the skills that formerly incarcerated Mainers can bring to the workforce," said Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman. "The H.I.R.E. ME seminar continues to be a great way for employers to hear from other employers about their experiences hiring formerly incarcerated workers, and the benefits that come with it. During this free half-day seminar, around 60 employers:

  • Heard the experiences of companies that work with justice involved individuals.

  • Learned about setting up training programs for individuals currently incarcerated.

  • Learned about tax credits and incentives for hiring this population.

  • Heard from offenders currently studying for careers in Maine industry.

Today was about breaking down barriers, said Corrections Commissioner Randall A. Liberty. It was about rewriting misconceptions employers have about justice involvement. The employers bore witness to the fortitude of a motivated and skilled future workforce. They saw first-hand the value of rehabilitation.

"It's been a tremendous success," Christine Fox of Nappi Distributors said during the first panel of the day, about hiring those on work release at the Southern Maine Women's Reentry Center. "They add so much value to our organization."

The Department of Corrections works to reduce the likelihood that juvenile and adult offenders will re-offend, by providing practices, programs and services which are evidence-based and which hold the offenders accountable, while ensuring public safety.

Job seekers with a criminal history are encouraged to visit their closest Maine CareerCenter for job search assistance. CareerCenters work directly with employers that are interested in this audience. Employers should contact the Business Services representative at a CareerCenter for assistance.

The Department of Labor's Bureau of Employment Services provides a variety of employment and training services for Maine workers, businesses and job seekers through the Maine CareerCenter network. The Department of Labor is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals upon request.

Supporting documents

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Maine's New Fair Chance in Employment Labor Law Now in Effect Bookmark and Share

October 27, 2021

For Immediate Release: October 27, 2021

Maine's New Fair Chance in Employment Labor Law Now in Effect

AUGUSTA - Multiple updates to Maine labor law went into effect on Monday, October 18, 2021, including 'An Act Relating to Fair Chance in Employment.' This new law prohibits employers from inquiring about an individuals criminal history on an initial employment application and from stating in employment advertisements that an individual with a criminal history may not apply.

An employer may inquire about a prospective employee's criminal history during an interview or once the prospective employee has been determined otherwise qualified for the position. If an employer inquires about a prospective employee's criminal record, the prospective employee, if still eligible for the position under applicable federal or state law, must be afforded an opportunity to explain the information and the circumstances regarding any convictions, including post-conviction rehabilitation.

There are exceptions if a background check is required or if it would be inappropriate for an individual with a certain criminal history to apply.

The Maine CareerCenters have a universal application that employers can use either as their actual application or as an example when creating their own: https://www.maine.gov/labor/careerctr/docs/2019/GenericEmploymentApplicationMaineRevised7219.pdf

More information about this and other labor law updates can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/labor_laws/llupdates/2021/index.shtml

Anyone who has questions about labor laws, or thinks their rights have been violated, should contact MDOLs Bureau of Labor Standards at (207) 623-7900 or https://www.maine.gov/labor/contact/index.html .

MDOL works to connect employers and job seekers who experience barriers to finding employment, such as justice-involved individuals. The Department works collaboratively with the Maine Department of Corrections (DOC) to help individuals currently and formerly incarcerated and those on probation to prepare for jobs through preemployment skills-based learning, connections to employers, and CareerCenter support services.

In recent years the DOL and DOC have co-hosted events for employers inside correctional facilities - https://www.maine.gov/labor/news_events/article.shtml?id=5865326, with the goal of providing a better understanding of justice involvement, how to hire incarcerated individuals through work release programs, and about bonding and tax credits for hiring those post release.

The Work Opportunity Tax Credit Program is a federal tax credit that offers a tax incentive for private sector businesses to hire individuals from targeted groups that have consistently faced significant barriers to employment. Call the Department of Labor at 207-623-7981 and ask to speak with the WOTC Coordinator. TTY users call Maine Relay 711.

The Federal Bonding Program was designed to provide insurance for employers to reduce any perceived financial risk of hiring someone. There are no out of pocket expenses for the employer because bonds are provided free of charge and carry a $0 deductible. There is also no cost to the job applicant. For more detailed information and eligibility requirements, visit the Federal Bonding Program website - https://bonds4jobs.com/ , or contact your local CareerCenter - https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/locations/index.shtml . You may also call the Maine Department of Labor at 207-623-7981 and ask to speak with the Federal Bonding Coordinator. TTY users call Maine Relay 711.

More information about these and other employer programs can be found at the link or by contacting your local CareerCenter: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/employers/index.shtml

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending October 23 Bookmark and Share

October 28, 2021

For Immediate Release: October 23, 2021

Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending October 23

Weekly claims are at the lowest level since November 2019

AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Labor announced today that during week ending October 23 about 3,300 people received an unemployment benefit payment. This represents a decrease of about 100 people from last week. Weekly claims are at the lowest level since November 2019.

During the week ending October 23, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 700 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, as well as about 60 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA).

Initial claims numbers represent claim applications, which are then reviewed for eligibility and legitimacy. In total, approximately 800 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.

About 4,500 weekly claims were filed last week for state unemployment, representing a decrease of about 300 weekly claims. About 10 weekly claims were filed under federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), a decrease of about 40 weekly claims from the previous week.

Not all weekly claims filed result in a benefit payment because eligibility is determined on a weekly basis, with certifications filed by claimants every week in order to continue to receive unemployment benefits. Of the 4,500 weekly claims filed, about 3,300 people received an unemployment benefit payment.

Weekly claims are filed after the end of the actual week. Therefore, the claims filed this week for the federal PUA and PEUC programs were for weeks ending September 4 or earlier. The PUA initial claims were those that were originally filed under the regular state program in a prior week, subsequently found ineligible for state unemployment, and then moved to the PUA program. These PUA claims have an effective date prior to the close of the program.

For the same time period, roughly 800 unemployment claimants reported having partial earnings for the week. Claimants who are working part-time and working back to their full hours may be eligible for partial benefits. More information, including a walk-through video and "partial benefit calculator," can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/pub/

Between March 15, 2020 and October 23, 2021, the Maine Department of Labor has paid out over $2.49 billion in federal and state unemployment benefits. Approximately $1.88 billion of the $2.49 billion was paid through federal unemployment programs.

The Department has handled approximately 279,450 initial claims for the state unemployment program and 114,700 initial claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Note: Claims do not equal the number of unique unemployment claimants. There have been over 4.5 million weekly certifications filed.

Please note that beginning in November, MDOL will transition back to its pre-COVID practice of only publicly posting its unemployment claims numbers on its website every Thursday at 8:30 a.m., which coincides with the posting of national claims numbers. The information can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html

In addition, the official state unemployment rate is released each month. September's information was released October 22. The state unemployment rate is different than unemployment insurance claims and is a better indicator of ongoing economic and labor market conditions. It is available on our website here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/laus.html .

Claims data is preliminary and subject to revision. Claims data can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/ui.html .

Other Updates

Openings Available in The Competitive Skills Scholarship Program (CSSP)

The Competitive Skills Scholarship Program (CSSP) provides funding and support services for eligible Maine residents to pursue two and four-year degree programs or employer recognized credentials leading to high-wage, in-demand jobs in Maine.

For more information and how to apply, visit: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/cssp.shtml

Enhancing Online Services

Mainers adapted quickly to online work and services during the pandemic. In recognition that many people find it easier to interact with the Department virtually, MDOL will be establishing a virtual CareerCenter where job seekers and employers can go for all things related to work and the workforce. The virtual CareerCenter will be in addition to the 12 physical CareerCenters located across the state.

MDOL has been awarded a $2.9 million 'CAREER (Comprehensive and Accessible Reemployment through Equitable Employment Recovery) National Dislocated Worker Grant from the U.S. Department of Labor - https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/eta/eta20210929 . This grant will help connect job seekers to employment as the economy continues its recovery from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.

This new tool will expand access to services for job seekers and employers most adversely affected by the COVID pandemic. Emphasis will be on ensuring the platform includes the digital improvements necessary to reach Maines most vulnerable populations by providing easy to navigate, customer-centric, access to services. Digital improvements will be designed to intentionally expand reach to historically marginalized unemployed populations.

Hiring Events

Employers can work with the Maine CareerCenters to hold independent virtual, in-person, or drive-through hiring events. Information on upcoming workshops and events: www.mainecareercenter.gov

Upcoming hiring event: On November 18, 2021 from 1 p.m. 4 p.m., the Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign will host a virtual hiring event. This three-hour event will feature employers in the northern part of the state during the first hour, employers in the central Maine area in the second hour and employers from the southern region in the third hour. Advance registration is required.

More information, and how to register, can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=5404744

Customized Employment Connection Job Fairs - MDOLs CareerCenters are holding targeted Customized Employment Connection hiring events. This involves assessing job seeker skills, employment goals, and demographic regions and utilizing this information to actively explore current employer pools to find compatible matches between the two for possible job match opportunities. Using the information we gain from the job seeker, along with employer information and their open positions, we work with the two to create customized opportunities for conversation on possible employment. Upcoming job fairs can be found here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/

Individuals receiving unemployment are required to actively look for work and to accept positions for which they are reasonably qualified. A refusal to accept an offer of suitable work is grounds for disqualifying a person for benefits. More information on the requirement can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/faq/worksearch/

Whether or not currently unemployed, people looking for work should visit Maine JobLink - https://joblink.maine.gov/ , to find thousands of jobs posted, including remote work. Employers can post their jobs by registering with the Maine JobLink.

The Department recommends that jobseekers take advantage of CareerCenter services. CareerCenters host a variety of hiring events as well as one-on-one meetings with a consultant, to develop employment or training plans. The CareerCenter can be reached by email atMaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov, by phone at 207-623-7981, or by live-chat at https://www.MaineCareerCenter.gov .

Employers who have tried to recall employees or have made job offers that have been declined, or who have scheduled an interview and the potential employee did not attend, can report those situations by using this online form - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/ucbr/ . The Department will determine whether the individual is receiving unemployment benefits, and, if so, determine whether they should remain eligible.

Employers can also participate in the WorkShare program - https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/workshare/ , which is designed to help employers avoid layoffs by allowing groups of workers to receive partial unemployment benefit payments while their employer reduces their hours. The employees are then subject to being called back when work expands.

Fraud Update - FBI False Unemployment Website PSA

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a Public Service Announcement to help the public identify and report false unemployment websites: https://www.ic3.gov/Media/Y2021/PSA211015 . Cyber criminals have created these spoofed websites to collect personal and financial data from US victims. These spoofed websites imitate the appearance of and can be easily mistaken for legitimate websites offering unemployment benefits.

The U.S. Department of Labor has a website - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft , for people to understand unemployment insurance identity theft, and how and where to report stolen benefits if they are victims.

The website provides key steps to help victims address issues that might arise because of previous identity theft and outlines steps to report the theft of unemployment benefits. To assist victims, the department worked closely with other federal agencies and state workforce agencies to consolidate necessary steps and resources.

The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims, and to evolve its fraud prevention techniques.

During the week ending October 23, the Department cancelled 53 initial claims suspected to be fraudulent.

The Department strongly recommends that claimants use a password that is unique to their unemployment account and is not used for anything else.

The Department encourages anyone who believes that someone else has used their or their employees personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment application to notify the Department immediately using this form: https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/idtheft/

U.S. Department of Labor Releases Emergency Temporary Standard Requiring COVID-19 Vaccination or Testing Bookmark and Share

November 4, 2021

For Immediate Release: November 4, 2021

U.S. Department of Labor Releases Emergency Temporary Standard Requiring COVID-19 Vaccination or Testing

Per State law and longstanding agreement with OSHA, Maine will have 30 days to adopt the standard for public employers

AUGUSTA - Today, the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released its Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) requiring all private employers with 100 or more employees to ensure their workforce is fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or require any workers who remain unvaccinated to wear a mask at work and produce a negative COVID-19 test result on at least a weekly basis before coming to work. The standard can be found here: https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2021-23643/covid-19-vaccination-and-testing-emergency-temporary-standard

As announced in September 2021 - https://www.maine.gov/labor/news_events/article.shtml?id=5589189 , the U.S. Department of Labor has informed the Maine Department of Labor that its requirement will apply to public sector employers in Maine, including state, county, and local governments and public school systems. Under longstanding State law and a 2015 agreement - https://www.osha.gov/stateplans/me with the Federal government, known as a "state plan," Maine is required to adopt and enforce for public employers all of OSHAs occupational safety and health standards. Maine is one of 26 states and two territories to have a state plan agreement with the Federal government.

Thus, the Maine Board of Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) is required both by Maine statute and the longstanding agreement with OSHA to adopt and enforce for public employers OSHA's standards within 30 days of the standard's official release.

More information on BOSH and next steps can be found on the Department's website: https://www.maine.gov/labor/workplace_safety/publicsector.shtml

U.S. Department of Labor Releases Emergency Temporary Standard Requiring COVID-19 Vaccination or Testing Bookmark and Share

November 8, 2021

For more information, please visit:

https://www.maine.gov/labor/workplace_safety/publicsector.shtml

Board of Occupational Safety and Health Adopts OSHA's Personal Protective Equipment Standard to Protect Public Sector Health Care Workers Bookmark and Share

November 15, 2021

For Immediate Release: November 15, 2021

Board of Occupational Safety and Health Adopts OSHA's Personal Protective Equipment Standard to Protect Public Sector Health Care Workers

AUGUSTA - Today, Maines Board of Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) adopted the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administrations (OSHA) Healthcare Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) relating to the provision of personal protective equipment. While already in effect for private health care employers, this now extends the same protections available to health care workers in the private sector to those working in publicly operated settings such as state-run psychiatric facilities and city or municipal emergency responders. This is a separate ETS from the recently published COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing ETS - https://www.osha.gov/coronavirus/ets2 .

Under longstanding State law and a 2015 agreement with the Federal government, known as a "state plan - https://www.osha.gov/stateplans/me ," Maine is required to adopt and enforce for public employers all of OSHAs occupational safety and health standards.

OSHA published its Emergency Temporary Standard - https://www.osha.gov/news/newsreleases/national/06102021 on June 21, 2021 for private employers. The standard established new requirements for settings where employees provide healthcare or health care support services, including skilled nursing homes and home healthcare, with some exemptions for healthcare providers who screen out patients who may have COVID-19. The ETS is aimed at protecting workers facing the highest COVID-19 hazards-those working in healthcare settings where suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients are treated. This includes employees in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities; emergency responders; home healthcare workers; and employees in ambulatory care facilities where suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients are treated.

Key pieces of the federal standard include employer requirements on:

  • Developing and implementing a COVID-19 plan
  • Patient screening and management
  • Developing and implementing policies and procedures to adhere to Standard and Transmission-Based Precautions in accordance with the CDC
  • Providing and ensuring employees wear personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Physical distancing of at least 6 feet when indoors
  • Physical barriers
  • Cleaning and disinfection
  • Ventilation
  • Health screening and medical management
  • Providing reasonable time and paid leave for vaccinations and vaccine side effects
  • Training
  • Recordkeeping
  • Reporting work-related COVID-19 fatalities and hospitalizations to OSHA

The requirements must be implemented at no cost to employees.

Information on OSHAs standard, including FAQs and a webinar, can be found here: https://www.osha.gov/coronavirus/ets

The Board will next meet on December 2, 2021. During this meeting, BOSH will adopt for the public sector OSHAs Emergency Temporary Standard on requiring all private employers with 100 or more employees to ensure their workforce is fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or require any workers who remain unvaccinated to produce a negative COVID-19 test result on at least a weekly basis before coming to work.

More information on BOSH and their next meeting can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/workplace_safety/publicsector.shtml

CareerCenter December Hiring Events and New Customized Connections Program Bookmark and Share

December 2, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 2, 2021

CareerCenter December Hiring Events and New Customized Connections Program

MAINE - The Maine Department of Labor's CareerCenters, together with its partners, offers many services to help people find employment or upgrade skills, and help employers find qualified workers.

Due to COVID-19, many services are being offered virtually, while in-person services are currently being offered by appointment. Hiring events are being offered virtually, drive-through, or in person. Appointments or pre-registration can be made by calling 1-888-457-8883 or by live-chatting with staff on the https://www.mainecareercenter.gov website .

New Customized Connections Program: Looking for work today means finding that perfect match. Jobseekers have unique priorities to consider like flexible hours, distance from home or childcare, work environment, unique benefits- and businesses are responding! This is a one-on-one, customized service for everyone, no matter where you are in your career. Tell us what youre looking for in your job search or next step on your career pathway in this 3-minute survey and let us help you make the match! CareerCenter staff will reach out to respondents by phone or email within about 48 hours to get started: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=q6g_QX0gYkubzeoajy-GTo2tKVHytLtNjAaolN0eV1pUNEo5MldMVDhER1FRMFNHNVpJVjlRN0JCQy4u

December Hiring Events: - December 8, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Portland - WIS/RGIS - December 8, 2021 from noon to 5 p.m. in Biddeford FMI - December 9, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Virtual Will feature Hire-A-Vet Campaign sponsoring employers. - December 9, 2021 from 9 a.m. to noon in Portland WIS/RGIS - December 9, 2021 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Virtual Will feature area ski industries hiring for seasonal and full-time operations. - December 10, 2021 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Brunswick Bath Iron Works - December 10, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Portland WIS/RGIS - December 11, 2021 from 10 a.m. to noon Virtual Coastal Care Solutions - December 11, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Brunswick Bath Iron Works - And more are added all the time!

More information about these hiring events can be found by clicking on the event at https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/

The following services and programs are available at no cost to the public:

  • Career Directions Explores your career interests, aptitudes, values, personality, motivation and how each transfer to todays job market.
  • Resume & Cover Letter Writing Covers the basics of how to evaluate or create an effective resume and cover letter.
  • Effective Interviewing Skills Dedicated to exploring proper interviewing techniques and tips.
  • Job Search Essentials - This workshop is intended to orient job seekers with the digital tools that have risen in importance
  • The Career Exploration Workshop An extensive and informative three-day workshop offered to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) clients to explore a variety of career paths and research the required skills needed for those careers. Registration through Vocational Rehabilitation is required. Please call (207) 753-9000 for more information.
  • Navigating Hiring Process for Individuals with a Criminal History - Navigating Job Search and Hiring Process for Individuals with a Criminal History
  • And MORE!

Workshops can be accessed by clicking on them here: https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/workshops.shtml

Each of the twelve statewide centers provides public computers with internet access, Microsoft Office, resume/cover letter writing software, and O*Net software for personal skills assessment. Employers can list their open positions on Maine JobLink and use our online system which matches jobs with candidates. All CareerCenter services are provided at no charge to employers and job seekers. Veterans and eligible spouses receive priority of service in all Department of Labor programs.

Transition Work-Based Learning Model Demonstration Grant Bookmark and Share

March 3, 2022

In 2016, the Maine Division of Vocational Rehabilitation was awarded a five-year Disability Innovation Fund grant through the US Department of Education's Rehabilitation Services Administration to study effective practices in work-based learning.

Over 350 high school students in the Bangor and Augusta areas participated in the grants two interventions - Enhanced Jobs for Maines Grads (E-JMG) and Progressive Employment before it concluded on September 30, 2021. To learn more about the grant and its findings, please go to https://www.maine.gov/rehab/grants/twbl/

2020 CDE Annual Report (January 6, 2021) Bookmark and Share

March 24, 2022

Supporting documents

2020 CDE Annual Report

Working Fatigued Bookmark and Share

June 30, 2022

For more information, please click on following:

https://www.osha.gov/worker-fatigue/hazards?fbclid=IwAR33lFgNLMksygQDFshvZCMzA0AI7ekjW2gQM4siexvO7i4phR8FI4MctUA

Preventing Workplace Suicides Bookmark and Share

June 30, 2022

For more information, please click on following:

https://www.osha.gov/preventingsuicides

CareerCenter March Hiring Events and Services Bookmark and Share

February 23, 2024

CareerCenter March Hiring Events and Services

MAINE - Are you a job seeker and not sure what the next step in your career is, or an employer looking to expand your workforce? The Maine Department of Labor's CareerCenters, together with their partners, offer many services to help people find employment or upgrade skills, and help employers find qualified workers.

JOB SEEKERS!

Workshops and Training - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/workshops.shtml

Virtual Workshop: Navigating Hiring Process for Individuals with a Criminal History - March 1, 2024 from 1-2 p.m.

Presenter: Kenneth Hull, Workforce Solutions Are you an individual with a criminal history and not sure how to navigate the job search and hiring process due to your past offenses? Whether you were a juvenile or adult, felony or misdemeanor, state or federal offense, this workshop is for you. To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/navigating-hiring-process-for-individuals-with-a-criminal-history-tickets-814486429837?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Virtual Workshop: Maine's Employment & Training Program Info Session - March 12, 2024 from 34 p.m.

Do you need help finding your next job or finding support for a training you are interested in? The WIOA Title 1B services may be the program for you! Join staff from Eastern Maine Development Corps for this session discussing the services, eligibility and how to get enrolled. To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/maines-employment-training-program-info-session-tickets-814457282657?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Virtual Workshop: Searching for Work : Age 55+ With or Without Health & Physical Restriction by Workforce Solutions - March 21, 2024 from 1011 a.m.

Does it sometimes seem like your age or experience is working against you in your job search? It's true that some employers may have reservations, but many see that hiring and retaining older workers will be key to staying competitive. Whether exploring a new career or searching for a job, this presentation will provide tips and suggestions to overcome bias and promote confidence in re-entering the workforce. To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/searching-for-work-age-55-with-or-without-health-physical-restriction-tickets-798798015367?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Hiring Events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/

To explore additional opportunities and meet with employers, visit one of our upcoming hiring events:

March 1, 2024 Lewiston Hiring Event: General Dynamics/Bath Iron Works - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12362396

March 2, 2024 Lewiston Hiring Event: General Dynamics/Bath Iron Works - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12362397

March 5, 2024 Hinckley Hiring Event: Northern Kennebec Valley CareerCenter - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12319286

March 5, 2024 Presque Isle Hiring Event: Androscoggin Home Healthcare & Hospice - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12365246

March 6, 2024 Portland Hiring Event: Portland CareerCenter 1st Wednesday Hiring Event - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12186499

March 6, 2024 Hinckley Hiring Event: Northern Light Health - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12342694

March 11, 2024 Lewiston Hiring Event: Lewiston CareerCenter Bi-Weekly Healthcare Hiring Events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12190268

March 13, 2024 Brunswick Hiring Event: Southern Maine Community College - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12228315

March 14, 2024 Springvale Hiring Event: Spring '24 Thursday Hiring Events at SCAE - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12285046

March 14, 2024 Lewiston Hiring Event: Androscoggin Home Healthcare & Hospice - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12362386

March 25, 2024 Lewiston Hiring Event: Lewiston CareerCenter Bi-Weekly Healthcare Hiring Events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12190269

March 27, 2024 Augusta Hiring Event: University of Maine in Augusta - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12228252

March 27, 2024 Lewiston Hiring Event: Sacopee Valley High School - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12296070

March 28, 2024 Springvale Hiring Event: Spring '24 Thursday Hiring Events at SCAE - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12285047

March 30, 2024 Bangor Hiring Event: Northern Light Blue Hill Hospital, Maine Coast Hospital and Home Care & Hospice - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/locations/jobfair.shtml?id=12368066

EMPLOYERS

Helping Business to Recruit and Train Employees - https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/employers/index.shtml

Maine CareerCenters provide a variety of employment and training services at no charge for Maine workers and businesses. We assist all sizes of employers with recruiting, hiring, training, workforce services and access to labor market information. Whether your business is growing or downsizing, we can assist with job retention, expansion, and creation, as well as help workers who are facing job loss due to downsizing or closures.

Contact your closest CareerCenter - https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/locations/index.shtml and ask to speak with the Business Services Representative. We will assess your situation and tailor solutions to fit the needs of the business.

CONTACT US

Services are available virtually via the CareerCenter hotline:

  • 207-623-7981
  • 888-457-8883
  • TTY users call Maine Relay 711

Live Chat: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/index.shtml

E-mail: MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov

If youd prefer to access services and information in-person at one of our CareerCenters, call the CareerCenter hotline to schedule an appointment or visit the CareerCenter location website - https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/locations/ to see when staff are on-site near you.

Each of the centers across the state provides public computers with internet access, Microsoft Office, resume/cover letter writing software, and O*Net software - https://www.onetonline.org/ for personal skills assessment.

Employers can list their open positions on Maine JobLink and use our online system which matches jobs with candidates. All CareerCenter services are provided at no charge to employers and job seekers. Veterans and eligible spouses receive priority of service in all Department of Labor programs.

March Safety Classes Bookmark and Share

February 28, 2024

Workplace safety and labor law requirements can seem complex - join the Maine Department of Labor for no-cost upcoming trainings!

Upcoming classes:

Confined Space Entry - Construction

March 1, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

A confined space has limited or restrictive openings for accessing the space and is not meant for continuous use by workers. OSHA uses the term "permit-required confined space" (permit-space) to describe a confined space in which workers are exposed to serious hazards within a confined space. Employers must be able to determine if a confined space is permit-required. In this half-day course, attendees will learn how to evaluate confined spaces, monitor them during use, and set up rescue procedures.

Ladder Safety

March 4, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

Ladders are a major source of injuries and fatalities in the workplace. However, falls can be reduced if people use caution when climbing ladders or when working in places where falls are a potential hazard. This half-day course will demonstrate how falls from ladders can be prevented through education which includes planning for their use, ladder inspection, and using basic ladder safeguards.

Incident Investigation/Injury Analysis

March 5, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

When work doesn't go as planned, incidents and close calls happen. Investigating these incidents can prevent similar or even more serious problems from happening. In this half-day class, learn how to conduct a thorough investigation and how to use your results to prevent future incidents.

Life Safety Code 101

March 7, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

This one-day class will provide a working overview of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 101 "Life Safety Code" for fire and life safety in the building environment. Topics covered will include classification of occupancy types, adequate means of egress, occupant load factors, and occupancy specific hazards to fire and life safety. The Life Safety Code is adopted in the State of Maine as the state code for fire and life safety in buildings.

Trenching & Excavation

March 8, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

This course explains the dangers to employees from trenching and excavation operations, soil classifications, OSHA requirements, and the types of protective systems to prevent cave-ins. You will also learn what is meant by "competent person."

Mine Safety & Health Administration: Refresher

March 11, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requires all surface mining (i.e., stone crushing, gravel pit, etc.) employees to receive an eight-hour annual training. This one-day course will cover generic MSHA training. However, site-specific training will also need to be conducted once you return to your respective job sites.

Emergency Scene Traffic Control VIRTUAL

March 11, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Performing duties while working in the roadway is extremely dangerous for emergency responders. This class covers requirements for training, personal protective equipment (PPE) for firefighters and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers who will be controlling traffic at unplanned motor vehicle accidents. This program will also include setting up a safe work-zone, equipment needed, guidance for day and nighttime operations, blocking to protect the scene, apparatus parking, incident types, signs, communication regulatory text, liability and much more.

Wage & Hour Compliance

March 13, 2024 I 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Northern Maine Community College, 33 Edgemont Drive, Presque Isle

This course is designed for human resource or benefits professionals, accountants, business owners, managers, or payroll supervisors. Labor laws can be complex. This seminar covers wage and hour laws, including minimum wage, overtime, youth employment, severance pay, equal pay, rest breaks, leave requirements (earned paid leave, family medical leave, family sick leave and leave for victims of violence). This class addresses commonly asked labor-related questions.

NFPA 1401 Fire Service Training, Reports & Records

March 13, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

This half-day course provides training to fire fighters and emergency response personnel on the proper approach for conducting safe and efficient, live, fire-training evaluations for both acquired structures and static-burn facilities. Discussion will also include legal ramifications in the event of a negative outcome.

Mine Safety & Health Administration: Refresher

March 14, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requires all surface mining (i.e., stone crushing, gravel pit, etc.) employees to receive an eight-hour annual training. This one-day course will cover generic MSHA training. However, site-specific training will also need to be conducted once you return to your respective job sites.

10 Hour Construction Standards

March 14 & 15, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 a.m. (Day 1); 8;30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Day 2) University of Maine Presque Isle, 181 Main Street, Presque Isle

This one-and-a-half-day course offers basic information on a variety of construction industry safety/health standards (29 CFR 1926). Attendees who complete the course will receive an OSHA 10-hour course completion certificate.

Wage & Hour Compliance

March 20, 2024 I 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

This course is designed for human resource or benefits professionals, accountants, business owners, managers, or payroll supervisors. Labor laws can be complex. This seminar covers wage and hour laws, including minimum wage, overtime, youth employment, severance pay, equal pay, rest breaks, leave requirements (earned paid leave, family medical leave, family sick leave and leave for victims of violence). This class addresses commonly asked labor-related questions.

Impairment Detection Training for Employers

March 21, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

This one-day training session is designed to help owners, managers, and supervisors recognize and respond appropriately to employee-impairment in the workplace to reduce worker accidents and injuries. Participants will be taught procedures to detect impairment regardless of the substance or cause. This class is designed to fulfill the federal DOT requirements for reasonable suspicion training of supervisors. In addition, participants will learn how to develop and implement policies that address impairment in the workplace and are in compliance with Maine's Substance Use Testing Law.

30 Hour Construction Standards

March 25-29, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (every day) SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

This five-day course introduces attendees new to safety and health to the OSHA standards for construction industry (29 CFR 1926). Attendees who complete all five days will receive an OSHA 30-hour construction course certificate.

Register and browse more SafetyWorks! classes: https://www.safetyworksmaine.gov/training/scheduled_classes/register.shtml

If you have questions about safety or upcoming classes, reach out to SafetyWorks! at 1-877-SAFE-345 or general.bls-safetyworks@maine.gov.

If you have questions about Wage and Hour compliance, please reach out to the Wage and Hour Division at 207-623-7900 or general.bls-safetyworks@maine.gov, or visit www.maine.gov/labor/bls/.

Upcoming Event: The 14th Annual Aroostook County Safety Symposium will be held April 16-17, 2024 at the University of Maine at Presque Isle. This includes course offerings on fall protection, electrical safety, recordkeeping, recovery in the workplace, and Safety and the Supervisor and many other classes. In addition, a free half day session on Managing Underground Safety will be offered for excavation contractors. For a brochure or to register, contact BParks@memic.com.

Thank you,

The Maine Department of Labor

The Employment Situation in Maine - January 2024 Bookmark and Share

March 11, 2024

Released: Monday, March 11, 2024 at 10 a.m. Contact: Glenn Mills, 207-530-2079

The Employment Situation in Maine - January 2024

Nonfarm jobs increased to a new high and unemployment was unchanged. These preliminary indications follow annual revisions to data for prior years. In 2023 there were somewhat more jobs than previously estimated, especially in the summer months, and unemployment was modestly lower early and higher later in the year. An article comparing previously published to revised data - https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/2024workforcedata_revisions.pdf .

These estimates are derived from two monthly surveys. The Current Population Survey collects information from households on labor force status, including labor force participation, employment, and unemployment. The Current Employment Statistics survey collects information from nonfarm employers by industry on the number of wage and salary jobs, hours worked, and wages paid to individuals on their payrolls. Both surveys are administered by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Preliminary estimates from the two surveys sometimes diverge in direction or magnitude of change. Over extended periods they tend to be more aligned.

Seasonally Adjusted Statewide Labor Force Estimates

The preliminary unemployment rate estimate was unchanged at 3.4 percent. (December's previously reported rate of 3.2 percent was revised up 0.2 points.) The average for the three-month period through January was 0.2 points higher than for the preceding three months through October. This resulted from a small decrease in the employment rate. The decreased employment rate, from the survey of households, is at odds with indications from the larger, more reliable payroll survey of employers, which sometimes occurs over short periods.

Unemployment has been below four percent for 26 consecutive months the second longest such period and below the U.S. average 192 of the last 194 months. It remains well below the long-term average. (The average since the current estimating methodology was adopted in January 1976 is 5.5 percent.)

Unemployment averaged 3.4 percent for New England and 3.7 percent for the U.S. in January. (The U.S. rate for February was 3.9 percent. State rates are released about two weeks after the national rate in 11 months of each year. The exception is for January, which is delayed about three weeks for state annual data revisions.)

Seasonally Adjusted Statewide Nonfarm Jobs Estimates

Preliminary estimates of nonfarm wage and salary jobs increased 1,300 from a month ago and 8,300 from a year ago to 655,400. Jobs reached a new high for the third consecutive month. Nearly two-thirds of the over the year increase was in healthcare and social assistance. The average for the three-month period through January was 2,700 more than for the preceding three months.

Not Seasonally Adjusted County and Metro Area Labor Force Estimates

On a not seasonally adjusted basis the statewide unemployment rate was 3.8 percent. Rates were at least 0.3 percentage points higher than that in seven counties, at least 0.3 points lower than that in three, and close to the average in six. Rates were lowest in Sagadahoc and highest in Washington counties.

Among the three metro areas of the state, unemployment was below the statewide average in Portland-S. Portland and close to the average in Bangor and Lewiston-Auburn

(Labor force estimates for substate areas, including unemployment rates, are not seasonally adjusted. Because of this, estimates for a certain month should be compared to the same month in other years and should not be compared to other months in the same or other years.)

Not Seasonally Adjusted Statewide and Metro Area Hours and Earnings Estimates

The private sector workweek averaged 32.8 hours and earnings averaged $31.33 per hour in January. Average hours decreased 0.8 and hourly earnings increased 4.7 percent from a year earlier. Earnings increases were led by a 12 percent gain in construction. The workweek was longest in construction and shortest in leisure and hospitality. Earnings were highest in professional and business services and lowest in leisure and hospitality.

Hourly earnings were higher than the statewide average in the Portland-S. Portland metro and slightly lower in the Bangor and Lewiston-Auburn metros.

NOTES:

  1. Preliminary seasonally adjusted labor force estimates, including rates (labor force participation, employment, and unemployment rates), and levels (labor force, employed, and unemployed), as well as nonfarm wage and salary job estimates are inexact. Annual revisions (published in March each year) add accuracy. A comparison of 2022 and 2023 revised and previously published estimates is available in this blog - https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/2024workforcedata_revisions.pdf .
  2. The 90 percent confidence interval for the statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for January was between 2.7 and 4.1 percent.
  3. Nonfarm wage and salary jobs from the payroll survey provide a better indication of changes in employment than resident employment from the household survey. The payroll survey is larger and has smaller margins of error.
  4. Nonfarm payroll jobs estimates tend to be variable from month to month because the representativeness of reporting employers can differ. Seasonal adjustment is imperfect because weather, the beginning and ending of school semesters, and other events do not always occur with the same timing relative to the pay period that includes the 12th day of the month, which is the survey reference period. This sometimes exacerbates monthly changes in jobs estimates. Users should look to the trend over multiple months rather than the change from one specific month to another. Jobs estimates for the period from April 2023 to September 2024 will be replaced with payroll data in March 2025. Those benchmark revisions usually show less monthly variability than previously published estimates.

Governor Mills Proclaims March 12 National Equal Pay Day in Maine Bookmark and Share

March 12, 2024

For Immediate Release: March 12, 2024

Governor Mills Proclaims March 12 National Equal Pay Day in Maine

According to the United States Census Bureau, the difference between median earnings for men and women in Maine who worked full-time, year-round in 2022 was $9,370.

MAINE - Governor Janet Mills has proclaimed March 12, 2024 National Equal Pay Day in Maine, symbolizing how far into the year women must work to earn what men earned in the previous year. Nationally, women age 15 and over who are working full-time, year-round are on average paid just 84 cents for every dollar paid to men. The wage gap is even more pronounced for women of color. Nationally in 2022, African American women made 63 cents on the dollar, and Hispanic or Latina women just 58 cents on the dollar compared to white, non-Hispanic men.

"On this Equal Pay Day, let us recommit to paying women fairly and equally based on their experience, their responsibilities, and their qualifications so that we can level the playing field for women across Maine and ensure that our state provides opportunity for all," said Governor Janet Mills. "Not only is it good public policy, but it's the right thing to do."

Requirements regarding equal pay have been a part of Maine law since 1949, but wage inequality persists. To promote pay equality, Governor Mills signed legislation in 2019 to discourage employers from basing wages on an employee's salary history.

"The difference between median earnings for men and women in Maine who worked full-time, year-round in 2022 was over $9,000. Women, in general, have had to work until half-way through March to earn what men already earned in the previous year, and the reality is even starker for women of color," said Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman. "On Equal Pay Day, we acknowledge that equal pay for all women is an issue of basic fairness, and we recommit to that goal. Our state's economy cannot achieve its full potential if women's contributions are not appropriately valued."

Nationally, as of 2022, the average differences in median earnings between white, non-Hispanic or Latino men and women of color are $28,747 for American Indian and Alaska Native women, $25,844 for Black or African American women, and $3,282 for Asian women.

According to the 2018-2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, the five occupational groups in Maine with the largest wage gaps are legal occupations; health diagnosing and treating practitioners; sales and related occupations; production occupations; and transportation occupations.

"Decades into our fight for equal pay in the workplace, we still haven't achieved parity," said Destie Hohman Sprague, Executive Director of the Maine Women's Lobby. "Sexism and racism together keep the pay gap alive - and lack of caregiving infrastructure, such as childcare, paid family and medical leave, and other care supports exacerbate this problem, by keeping women in lower-paying and part-time jobs, or pushed out of the workforce completely. Equal Pay Day is a chance to shine a light on this problem and identify solutions that will work for all of us."

"Equal Pay Day symbolizes how far into the new year the average woman must work in order to have earned what the average man had earned by the end of the previous year. At the same time, it's important to remember that the pay gap for women varies by demographic, so for African women Equal Pay Day is on July 9, for Latina women its October 3 and for Native American women it's November 30," said Cynthia Phinney, President of the AFL-CIO. "The best way to close the pay gap and fight wage discrimination is with a union contract, so as we recognize this important day, we also affirm our resolve to ensure all women regardless of race or national origin have the right to join a union free from coercion and intimidation."

"Women of every race and background work hard to keep Maine families, businesses, and services running. Their work has equal value, but women, especially Latina, Black, and Indigenous women, aren't compensated at rates equal to men," said Ariel Ricci, Executive Director of the Permanent Commission on the Status of Racial, Indigenous, and Tribal Populations. "Everyone does better when women of all races and ethnicities get paid what their work is truly worth."

Maine's Equal Pay Law requires that employees be paid the same wages as employees of the opposite sex for work that is of a comparable nature in skill, effort, and responsibility.

MDOL's Bureau of Labor Standards, who enforces the Equal Pay Law in Maine, has a poster available for employers free of charge that outlines the basics of the law:

  • An employer may not discriminate between employees in the same establishment on the basis of sex by paying wages to any employee at a rate less than the rate at which the employer pays any employee of the opposite sex for comparable work on jobs that have comparable requirements relating to skill, effort and responsibility.
  • An employer may not prohibit employees from discussing their wages with coworkers.

Anyone who believes they are not being paid the same wages as an employee of the opposite sex for comparable work, should file an equal pay complaint. The Maine Department of Labor has a printable equal pay complaint form here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/labor_laws/publications/epcomplaintform.pdf

A mailed or emailed complaint form can be requested by contacting the Wage and Hour Division at 207-623-7900 or mdol@maine.gov.

More information on equal pay can be found on the U.S. Dept. of Labor's Women's Bureau website: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/wb/equal-pay-protections.

Supporting documents

Download an image showing wage gap information

Paid Family and Medical Leave Benefits Authority Holds First Meeting Bookmark and Share

March 12, 2024

For Immediate Release: March 12, 2024

Paid Family and Medical Leave Benefits Authority Holds First Meeting

Members named their Chair and Vice Chair

AUGUSTA - Maine's newly confirmed Paid Family and Medical Leave Benefits Authority met for the first time today, March 12, 2024 at 45 Commerce Drive in Augusta. The meeting included introductions, an overview of the Paid Family and Medical Leave statute, and commission training. Members of the public were able to watch the meeting in-person or via Zoom.

During the meeting, the Authority unanimously voted Maria Fox in as Chair of the Authority, and Samuel Hight as Vice-Chair. They also voted to adopt a remote meeting policy for when members are unable to attend in-person.

The members of the Authority who were appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Maine State Senate are as follows:

  • Benjamin K. Grant- Member with expertise in issues affecting labor and independent contractors. Organization: Maine Education Association
  • David Barber-Employer with more than 50 employees. Organization: Barber Foods
  • Vice-Chair Samuel J. Hight-Member who is self-employed. Organization: Owns and operates multiple organizations including Hight Ford, Inc., Hight Chevrolet Farmington, and Hight Properties, LLC.
  • Christopher J. Washburn-Expertise in issues related to paid family leave benefits and paid medical leave benefits. Organization: Delhaize America
  • Michelle Corry-An employer in the hospitality industry. Organization: Five fifty-five
  • Jay Naliboff, MD-Expertise in treating issues affecting maternity and postpartum care. Organization: Retired.
  • Jenni Tilton-Flood-Expertise in agriculture, a seasonal workforce or a heritage industry. Organization: Flood Brothers Farm.
  • Sarah Conroy-Expertise in issues affecting elder care. Organization: Androscoggin Home Healthcare + Hospice.
  • Ranae LItalian-Expertise in childcare and early childhood development. Organization: Kennebec Valley YMCA.
  • Chair Maria Fox- Expertise in employment law representing employee interests. Organization: Murray, Plumb and Murray

The Authoritys next meetings are scheduled for: - Tuesday, May 7 from 9-11 a.m. - Tuesday, June 11 from 9-11 a.m.

The most up-to-date information on Maines Paid Family and Medical Leave Program can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/pfml/

Supporting documents

Download a picture of the committee meeting

Download a picture of the Chair and Vice-Chair of the committee

Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) Benefits will be available to people who lost their job or business due to January 9 and 13 storms Bookmark and Share

March 21, 2024

For Immediate Release: March 21, 2024

Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) Benefits will be available to people who lost their job or business due to January 9 and 13 storms

Applications will be open March 25 through April 22 to assist business owners, regular workers, seasonal or migrant workers, and self-employed individuals who lost their job, job offer, or had their work hours reduced or interrupted due to the January 9 and 13 storms in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington, and York Counties.

AUGUSTA - On March 20, 2024, President Biden approved Governor Mills' request for a major disaster declaration for Maine as it recovers from the storms on January 9 and 13, 2024. This declaration allows the Maine Department of Labor's Bureau of Unemployment Compensation to provide temporary financial assistance to people whose employment or self-employment was impacted by the January 9 and 13 storms in the following counties:

  • Cumberland
  • Hancock
  • Knox
  • Lincoln
  • Sagadahoc
  • Waldo
  • Washington
  • York

Funding will be available for eligible applicants who apply within 30 days of the declaration of a major disaster, until April 22, 2024, to assist eligible workers, business owners, and self-employed individuals who lost their jobs, job offers, or businesses, or had their work hours reduced or interrupted due to impacts brought about by the January 9 and/or 13 storms.

The Maine Department of Labor will accept applications for 30 days, starting at 8 a.m. on March 25, 2024. Individuals may be eligible if they do not qualify for regular Unemployment Insurance (UI) and they live in, work in, were scheduled to work in, or were scheduled to travel through an area affected by the January 9 and/or 13 storms and lost their employment or self-employment directly due to the disaster.

Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) applies to losses for eligible people impacted by the January 9 and/or 13 storms with the first payable week of Disaster Unemployment Assistance for the week starting on January 14, 2024, and ending on September 21, 2024. Unemployment benefits start the first full week after the disaster. Claims can be filed for the weeks beginning January 14, 2024.

Full-time workers, part-time workers, and self-employed part-time individuals can be eligible for benefits. The last payable week of this emergency benefit ends September 21, 2024 as long as their unemployment or self-employment continues as a result of the disaster. Eligibility for DUA benefits will be determined on a week-to-week basis for each week they file their claim.

Who might be eligible:

An individual might be eligible for DUA benefits if they are a business owner, a self-employed person, a regular worker, or a seasonal or migrant worker who lost their job, job offer, or had their work hours reduced due to the January 9 and/or 13 storms.

To be eligible for DUA, a person can't be eligible for regular unemployment benefits in any state. When they apply, they must be able to work, ready and willing to accept work, and have the time and means to work, unless they suffered injuries directly linked to the disaster. Additionally, they must meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • They can't work or they are working reduced hours because the disaster damaged or destroyed their workplace
  • They can't return, resume, or start their employment or self-employment because of the disaster
  • They can't work due to injuries caused as a direct result of the disaster
  • They can't get to their job due to the impact of the disaster in one of the affected areas. This also applies if they reside in a major disaster area but are unable to reach their place of employment or self-employment outside the disaster area
  • They became the primary support of their family because of the death of the head of the household as a result of the disaster

How to apply:

Beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, March 25, individuals can apply for DUA benefits at https://assist.reemployme.maine.gov/ or by phone at 1-800-593-7660. To be considered, they need to submit their application by April 22, 2024.

They will first have to complete the regular state unemployment form to determine eligibility for UI benefits or DUA benefits

What information is needed:

To complete the application, an individual will need to provide their Social Security Number (SSN), and the name, address, and dates of employment of all their employers for the past two years, including out-of-state employers.

They will need to provide all supporting evidence no more than 21 days after the application has been filed. The documents they need to provide might vary depending on their circumstances and previous employers but could include proof of identity, their most recent federal income tax form, and other documents proving that they were working or self-employed when the disaster occurred. If they need to submit proof of income for the past year, they can submit those documents after the 21 days deadline but no later than the end of the disaster assistance period. However, delays in submitting their documents can impact their benefits and overall processing times.

Visit https://www.maine.gov/unemployment/dua/ for more information about Disaster Unemployment Assistance and how to apply. Individuals can also contact the Department at 1-800-593-7660.

To learn about all federal assistance programs, contact FEMA's helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

Reemployment services are available at https://www.mainecareercenter.gov

The Employment Situation in Maine - February 2024 Bookmark and Share

March 22, 2024

Released: Friday, March 22, 2024 at 10 a.m. Contact: Glenn Mills, 207-530-2079

The Employment Situation in Maine - February 2024

Nonfarm jobs increased to a new high for the fourth consecutive month and the 3.4 percent unemployment rate was unchanged for the fifth month.

These estimates are derived from two monthly surveys. The Current Population Survey collects information from households on labor force status, including labor force participation, employment, and unemployment. The Current Employment Statistics survey collects information from nonfarm employers by industry on the number of wage and salary jobs, hours worked, and wages paid to individuals on their payrolls. Both surveys are administered by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Preliminary estimates from the two surveys sometimes diverge in direction or magnitude of change. Over extended periods they tend to be more aligned.

Seasonally Adjusted Statewide Labor Force Estimates

The preliminary unemployment rate was 3.4 percent - unchanged since October. The average for the three-month period through February was 0.1 points higher than for the preceding three months through November. This resulted from a slight decrease in the employment rate found in the survey of households, a pattern that is at odds with indications from the larger payroll survey, which tends to be more reliable over several months.

Unemployment has been below four percent for 27 months the second longest such period and below the U.S. average for all but two months in more than 16 years. Unemployment remains below the long-term average for the state. (The average since the current methodology was adopted in January 1976 is 5.5 percent.)

Unemployment averaged 3.4 percent for New England and 3.9 percent for the U.S. in February.

Seasonally Adjusted Statewide Nonfarm Jobs Estimates

The preliminary estimate of 656,200 nonfarm wage and salary jobs was up 700 over the month and 9,400 over the year. Jobs reached a new high for the fourth consecutive month. The February increase was close to the 800 monthly average gain in the last 12 months.

Jobs in healthcare and social assistance increased 6,000 over the year, accounting for close to two-thirds of net job growth. The sector increased 0.7 points to 17 percent of jobs, its highest share on record, except for the first 11 months after the onset of the pandemic in 2020. The share of jobs was little changed in other sectors.

Not Seasonally Adjusted County and Metro Area Labor Force Estimates

On a not seasonally adjusted basis the statewide unemployment rate was 3.9 percent. Rates were at least 0.3 percentage points higher than that in nine counties, at least 0.3 points lower than that in three, and close to the average in four. Rates were lowest in Sagadahoc and highest in Piscataquis counties.

Among the three metro areas of the state, unemployment was below the statewide average in Portland-S. Portland and close to the average in Bangor and Lewiston-Auburn.

(Labor force estimates for substate areas, including unemployment rates, are not seasonally adjusted. Because of this, estimates for a certain month should be compared to the same month in other years and should not be compared to other months in the same or other years.)

Not Seasonally Adjusted Statewide and Metro Area Hours and Earnings Estimates

The private sector workweek averaged 32.8 hours and earnings averaged $31.33 per hour in February. Average hours decreased 0.8 and hourly earnings increased 4.7 percent from a year ago. Earnings increases were led by an eight percent gain in professional and business services. The workweek was longest in construction and shortest in leisure and hospitality. Earnings were highest in professional and business services and lowest in leisure and hospitality.

Hourly earnings were higher than the statewide average in the Portland-S. Portland metro and slightly lower in the Bangor and Lewiston-Auburn metros.

NOTES:

  1. Preliminary seasonally adjusted labor force estimates, including rates (labor force participation, employment, and unemployment rates), and levels (labor force, employed, and unemployed), as well as nonfarm wage and salary job estimates are inexact. Annual revisions (published in March each year) add accuracy. A comparison of 2022 and 2023 revised and previously published estimates is available in this blog - https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/blogs/2024workforcedata_revisions.pdf .
  2. The 90 percent confidence interval for the statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for February was between 2.7 and 4.1 percent.
  3. Nonfarm wage and salary jobs from the payroll survey provide a better indication of changes in employment than resident employment from the household survey. The payroll survey is larger and has smaller margins of error.
  4. Nonfarm payroll jobs estimates tend to be variable from month to month because the representativeness of reporting employers can differ. Seasonal adjustment is imperfect because weather, the beginning and ending of school semesters, and other events do not always occur with the same timing relative to the pay period that includes the 12th day of the month, which is the survey reference period. This sometimes exacerbates monthly changes in jobs estimates. Users should look to the trend over multiple months rather than the change from one specific month to another. Jobs estimates for the period from April 2023 to September 2024 will be replaced with payroll data in March 2025. Those benchmark revisions usually show less monthly variability than previously published estimates.

April Safety Classes Bookmark and Share

March 26, 2024

Dear Employer,

Workplace safety and labor law requirements can seem complex - join the Maine Department of Labor for no-cost upcoming trainings!

Upcoming classes:

NFPA #1 Fire Code - April 2, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta This one-day course provides overview training to fire fighters and emergency response personnel. This multi-part document has 16 sections to safeguard life and protect property from dangerous conditions caused by fire and explosion. Other fire codes including NFPA 101, 57, 58, 30, 13, 25, and 72 are referred to in this code.

Wage & Hour Compliance - April 3, 2024 I 9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. Sanford Community Adult Education, 668 Main Street, Sanford This course is designed for human resource or benefits professionals, accountants, business owners, managers, or payroll supervisors. Labor laws can be complex. This seminar covers wage and hour laws, including minimum wage, overtime, youth employment, severance pay, equal pay, rest breaks, leave requirements (earned paid leave, family medical leave, family sick leave and leave for victims of violence). This class addresses commonly asked labor-related questions.

Mine Safety & Health Administration: Refresher -
April 3, 2024 I 8:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. Joseph Ferris Community Center, 318 Wilson Street, Brewer The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requires all surface mining (i.e., stone crushing, gravel pit, etc.) employees to receive an eight-hour annual training. This one-day course will cover generic MSHA training. However, site-specific training will also need to be conducted once you return to your respective job sites.

**NEW! - Preventing Musculoskeletal Injuries ** April 4, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries can be a challenge to recognize as they often come on gradually from repetitive use. Other times these injuries are related to a sprain or strain. In any event, MSKs make up most injuries we see in the workplace. In this session you will learn: The importance of matching employee fitness to the essential physical demands of a job; Evaluate a job looking to prevent MSK risks; How to successfully develop and implement a custom workplace stretching and strengthening program that improves flexibility and reduces strain and strain severity and incidence; To properly respond to employees' early symptoms and provide effective first aid intervention that alleviates fear, prevents a disability mindset, and promotes recovery.

Wage & Hour Compliance - April 17, 2024 I 9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. Rockland CareerCenter, 91 Camden Street, Suite 201, Rockland This course is designed for human resource or benefits professionals, accountants, business owners, managers, or payroll supervisors. Labor laws can be complex. This seminar covers wage and hour laws, including minimum wage, overtime, youth employment, severance pay, equal pay, rest breaks, leave requirements (earned paid leave, family medical leave, family sick leave and leave for victims of violence). This class addresses commonly asked labor-related questions.

**Safety and the Supervisor ** April 17, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta The success of any safety program is dependent on your front-line supervisors. Do they have the technical and interpersonal skills it takes to move your safety program in a positive direction? This training discusses the interpersonal skills all supervisors should develop to create a positive safety culture. In addition, this course will outline the key tasks supervisors should be performing on a daily basis to identify hazards and keep their employees safe.

**Impairment Detection Training for Employers ** April 18, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta This one-day training session is designed to help owners, managers, and supervisors recognize and respond appropriately to employee impairment in the workplace in order to reduce worker accidents and injuries. Participants will be taught procedures to detect impairment regardless of the substance or cause. This class is designed to fulfill the federal DOT requirements for reasonable suspicion training of supervisors. In addition, participants will learn how to develop and implement policies that address impairment in the workplace and are in compliance with Maine's Substance Use Testing Law.

**A Practical Approach to Electrical Safety ** April 26, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta In this half-day class, you will learn how to protect workers from electrical hazards. NFPA 70E requirements will be discussed in layman's terms.

**Fire Extinguisher/Emergency Action Plans/Workplace Violence ** April 29, 2024 I 8:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta In this class, you will learn about Emergency Action Plans, including the use of fire extinguishers and how to maintain them. In addition, this class tackles the emerging concern for workplace violence and how to prepare your organization for this hazard. This is a one-day hands-on class. Those attending this class should come prepared to discharge a fire extinguisher.

**Mine Safety & Health Administration: Refresher ** April 30, 2024 I 8:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. Sanford Community Adult Education, 668 Main Street, Sanford The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requires all surface mining (i.e., stone crushing, gravel pit, etc.) employees to receive an eight-hour annual training. This one-day course will cover generic MSHA training. However, site-specific training will also need to be conducted once you return to your respective job sites.

Register and browse more SafetyWorks! classes: https://www.safetyworksmaine.gov/training/scheduled_classes/register.shtml

SafetyWorks! is also a host site for the Region 1 OSHA Training Institute Education Center. The next class will be:

  • April 8 April 10, 2024 503 Update Course for General Industry Outreach Trainers

To register go to https://oshaedne.com/osha-503/ or call 800-449-6742. Please note, these classes have a registration fee to attend.

If you have questions about safety or upcoming classes, reach out to SafetyWorks! at 1-877-SAFE-345 or general.bls-safetyworks@maine.gov.

If you have questions about Wage and Hour compliance, please reach out to the Wage and Hour Division at 207-623-7900 or bls.mdol@maine.gov, or visit https://www.maine.gov/labor/bls/.

Thank you,

The Maine Department of Labor

CareerCenter April Hiring Events and Services Bookmark and Share

March 26, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 26, 2024

CareerCenter April Hiring Events and Services

JOB SEEKERS

Workshops and Training - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/workshops.shtml

April 5, 2024 from 12 p.m.

Are you an individual with a criminal history and not sure how to navigate the job search and hiring process due to your past offenses? Whether you were a juvenile or adult, felony or misdemeanor, state or federal offense, this workshop is for you.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/navigating-hiring-process-for-individuals-with-a-criminal-history-tickets-849339726987?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Virtual Workshop: Maine's Employment & Training Program Info Session April 9, 2024 from 34 p.m.

Do you need help finding your next job or finding support for a training you are interested in? The WIOA Title 1B services may be the program for you! Join staff from Eastern Maine Development Corps for this session discussing the services, eligibility and how to get enrolled.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/maines-employment-training-program-info-session-tickets-814468476137?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Virtual Workshop: Searching for Work: Age 55+ With or Without Health & Physical Restriction April 18, 2024 from 1011 a.m.

Does it sometimes seem like your age or experience is working against you in your job search? It's true that some employers may have reservations, but many see that hiring and retaining older workers will be key to staying competitive. Whether exploring a new career or searching for a job, this presentation will provide tips and suggestions to overcome bias and promote confidence in re-entering the workforce.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/searching-for-work-age-55-with-or-without-health-physical-restriction-tickets-849601379597?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Hiring Events - https://www.mainecareercenter.com/employment/hiringevents/

To explore additional opportunities and meet with employers, visit one of our upcoming hiring events:

EMPLOYERS

Helping Business to Recruit and Train Employees - https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/employers/index.shtml

Maine CareerCenters assist all sizes of employers with recruiting, hiring, training, workforce services, and access to labor market information, at no cost. Whether your business is growing or downsizing, we can assist with job retention, expansion, and creation, as well as help workers who are facing job loss due to downsizing or closures.

Contact your closest CareerCenter - https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/locations/index.shtml and ask to speak with the Business Services Representative. We will assess your situation and tailor solutions to fit the needs of the business.

Contact Us

Services are available virtually via the CareerCenter hotline:

Phone: 207-623-7981 | 888-457-8883 | TTY users call Maine Relay 711

Live Chat: https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/index.shtml

E-mail: MaineDOL.CareerCenter@maine.gov

If you'd prefer to access services and information in-person at one of our CareerCenters, call the CareerCenter hotline to schedule an appointment or visit the CareerCenter location website - https://www.mainecareercenter.gov/index.shtml to see when staff are on-site near you.

Each of the centers across the state provides public computers with internet access, Microsoft Office, resume/cover letter writing software, and O*Net - https://www.onetonline.org/ software for personal skills assessment.

Employers can list their open positions on Maine JobLink and use our online system which matches jobs with candidates. All CareerCenter services are provided at no charge to employers and job seekers. Veterans and eligible spouses receive priority of service in all Department of Labor programs.