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'It’s killing the state': Governor’s bill to slow minimum wage increase fails

Gov. Paul LePage says he has no problem with minimum wage but he says the compression with it is killing the state, specifically small businesses. He asked the legislature to adjust the rate at which the prices increase but ultimately his latest attempt to change the law was defeated in the House.

PORTLAND (NEWS CENTER Maine) -- Governor Paul LePage says he is against repealing the law to increase minimum wage to $12 by 2020 but wants to adjust it to a timeline Maine’s economy and small businesses, are comfortable with. Ultimately, his latest attempt to change the law, LD 1913, was defeated in the House.

Governor LePage spoke Wednesday morning about his final push for minimum wage reform at this last Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce Eggs and Issues breakfast.

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“I think a better solution to minimum wage is better work skills,” said the Governor. “Education in my case helped me get away from minimum wage.”

He added as Maine’s governor, he actually still earns minimum wage.

“You got to do what you have to do to keep your business going,” says Aaron Lord, owner of Terry & Maxine’s in Turner.

Lord not only owns the restaurant, he is also the cook. He says when it comes to minimum wage, there needs to be a compromise. He works 90 to 100 hours a week, and when you do the math to determine his hourly pay, it’s far less than his wait staff.

“I’m happy for them. I want to see them make money but it is a little disheartening when you’re putting all that time in and they make that much money in 30 hours a week.”

The governor said Wednesday morning he is determined to address several specific issues before he departs from the Blaine House, and minimum wage is one.

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