I’m writing in support of Rep. Chellie Pingree’s recently introduced bill to shorten the time for asylum seekers to apply for a work permit to legally work in the United States. Maine’s labor shortage could be significantly addressed should this bill become law.

According to The Maine Economic Development Strategy 2020-2029 report, Maine needs to add at least 75,000 people to our workforce over the next 10 years, yet we are on track to lose 65,000 workers as older Mainers leave the workforce.

As executive director of Hope Acts, a Portland nonprofit organization that works to assist asylum seekers, I have met hundreds of asylum seekers who are determined to restart their lives and raise their families in Maine. They have fled horrific circumstances in their home countries. Most arrived here with just a small bag of personal belongings. They want to work, find safe homes and build roots in Maine. They are incredulous when we try to explain the federal laws that make them wait for over a year until they can work.

Once their work permits arrive, New Mainers are quickly hired by local employers. Immigrants are working in almost every sector of Maine’s economy, including as caregivers to sick, elderly and disabled Mainers in hospitals and group homes. They’re factory workers, manufacturing and packaging COVID test kits. Many work two jobs while caring for their children, continuing with English classes or taking college classes.

Thank you, Rep. Pingree, for introducing legislation that benefits immigrants and our state.

Martha Stein
Brunswick

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