The Maine Department of Labor has issued the official 2026 prevailing wage rates for construction workers on publicly funded projects, marking the annual update that determines minimum wage standards across the state’s infrastructure and building work. The newly published rates take effect on January 10, 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Standards.
The updated wage tables—broken down by county and construction trade—are now available on the department’s website. These rates guide compensation on public projects ranging from transportation improvements to state-owned facilities, ensuring that contractors meet wage standards based on local labor conditions.
Under Maine law (Title 26, Chapter 15), contractors working on government-funded construction projects must pay wages that reflect the going local rate for each trade. The Bureau calculates these prevailing wages using several data sources, including the annual statewide survey, certified payroll submissions, and the federal Davis-Bacon wage determinations.
“Maine continues to protect workers and invest in communities through strong prevailing wage protections,” said Maine Bureau of Labor Standards Director Kate Burkhart.
State officials emphasize that prevailing wage requirements are key to maintaining a stable and skilled construction workforce. By ensuring pay aligns with regional market conditions, Maine aims to support fair competition among contractors and strengthen long-term project quality.
The Advisory Board on Minimum Wage Rates on Construction Projects will convene on December 16, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Maine Department of Labor office in Augusta. Members of the public—whether contractors, labor representatives, or community stakeholders—will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the 2026 wage determinations.
Both in-person and Zoom attendance are available for the upcoming meeting. Individuals must register online to participate virtually.
Those who wish to challenge or object to the published 2026 wage rates may submit written objections to the Department of Labor. To be considered, objections must arrive before December 22, 2025.
Prevailing wage laws are designed to ensure fairness and consistency across publicly funded construction work. For Maine’s economy, these wage requirements:
With more public projects expected in 2026—including transportation upgrades, school improvements, and climate-resilient infrastructure—the wage update plays a critical role in budget planning and contractor compliance.
Originally reported by Maine Department Of Labor.
