Editor’s Note: Maine State Chamber President Dana Connors recently submitted this opinion editorial below to the Lewiston Sun Journal.
 
As business leaders representing the most important industries in our region, the Maine State Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting economic growth and job creation for all Americans. From manufacturing to agriculture, and from small local businesses to Fortune 500 companies, Maine’s economy relies on our diverse, talented workforce to drive the country forward. That is why the Chamber has joined a bipartisan group supporting federal legislation to create permanent protections for Dreamers. These protections would allow immigrants in our communities and across the country to continue to pursue their education, contribute to our labor force and tax base, and start new businesses that create jobs.

Patrick Dempsey, Maine’s living Governors, and this year’s awardees recognized in celebration of leadership

The Maine State Chamber of Commerce presented its celebration of the bicentennial of Maine's statehood at our annual awards dinner on Wednesday, October 30, 2019. Maine's seven living governors shared their perspectives and provided a historical context on what makes Maine unique through a professional video presentation. Special guest Patrick Dempsey, a Maine native and television and film actor who founded the Dempsey Center, joined us to share his thoughts on what makes Maine special. Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce President Deb Neuman was recognized with our "Chamber Professional of the Year" award for her leadership in, enthusiasm for, and dedication to promoting a positive business climate in the Bangor region.

Monday, January 6, 2020 | 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Bangor Savings Bank, Senator Way, Augusta

The Second Session of the 129th Legislature will begin its work on January 8, 2020.  Known as the “emergency” session, lawmakers will meet to discuss carry-over bills from 2019, as well as consider new bill titles as approved by the Legislative Council for 2020. This session promises to be a busy one – with carry-over legislation in the areas of tax policy, energy, natural resources, workforce development, and workplace issues, including paid family medical leave, to name a few.  What’s more, there is likely to be a supplemental budget for consideration and approval.

Support K-12 Computer Science in Maine

Computer science (CS) drives job growth and innovation throughout our economy and society. Computing occupations are the number 1 source of all new wages in the U.S. and make up more than half of all projected new jobs in STEM fields, making Computer Science one of the most in-demand college degrees. And, computing is used all around us and in virtually every field. It’s a foundational knowledge that all students need.

Alfond Leaders Program seeking more applicants for student loan debt relief

Funded by the Harold Alfond Foundation, the Maine program aims to stimulate economic growth in key industries by attracting and retaining STEM graduates. The Harold Alfond Foundation and the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) opened another application cycle to provide student loan debt relief for Maine residents who are employed by a Maine-based business in the STEM-related fields of science, technology, engineering, and math. Applications are now being accepted through November 15, 2019.