Zacchaeus of Winthrop, ME Jim,
I think there are way too many state employees. I believe that a pension plan tied to an employer should be done away with and think the state should adopt a plan such as the federal goverment did in the 80s. That makes it mobile as all pensions should be. What I take exception to is the statement that all state employees are highly overpaid or that they are much different than employees of any private employers. Compensation should be evaluated on an overall basis and not pulling out one item such as healthcare. If there is a shortage of certain skilled workers why shouldn't the state have to pay the going rate? That is the market at work and much better than the union negotiating increases for everyone. I am not a state worker and as a self-employed person I don't have time to spend on the internet all day. By the way if the stipend positions are so far overpaid why do the people keep leaving?report abuse

Jim of Buxton, ME Zacchaeus and Tammy Lynn,

I apologize that when I get out of work, I don't waste my time on the internet blogging. I only like to do that while I'm at work - oh wait, maybe I am like a state worker after all! Sorry about the confusion, I must be a hypocrite too.

Either way, if you honestly don't think there is a shortage of skilled workers in Maine, do a little research, use the hours a day you spend on the internet and do a little googling, and you can find the answer for yourself. I know again that sometimes state workers like having other people in the public sector do the hard work and research to actually achieve tangible outcomes, but this one I'll leave to you.

And yes, after around 5:30, I won't be writing, I'll be out with friends, at dinner, maybe a movie, or being social in some other way. Sorry Tammy Lynn, at least you always have your horses. That's something.report abuse

Tammy Lynn of Belgrade, ME Too bad Jim's work shift did not last a little longer so that he could answer your question Zacchaaeus.report abuse

Zacchaeus of Winthrop, ME Well Jim not being a state worker you make a convincing argument about why a stipend but why are they also having a hard time keeping them in the job if they are overpaid for the work they are doing?report abuse