I knew we were on the same team from the start.

All I was saying is that the kids maybe asked to work more than was allowed to help pay for some of these things. It isn’t uncommon in this area for kids to help out financially at home. It’s not fair to the kids, they shouldn’t have to sacrifice school/their childhood to keep things afloat while our miserable government (republican and democrat included) ruin everything for everyone, but that’s the reality of some central Maine families.

It isn't 1990 anymore, gas + teenage social life is pretty damn expensive. 40 hours a week as a busser/dishwasher probably only pulls in $10/hr. Some of these kids probably even have to buy their own vehicles, get insurance.

Owners are millionaires, not going under by any means.

I worked at the age of 14 in this area because I wanted money to spend when I was hanging out with my friends. My parents told me I had to pay for my own gas when I turned 16. I definitely overworked, companies definitely broke the law, but the truth of the matter is some kids in central Maine NEED to work extra to pay for their lunches, gas, and the small bit of luxury they can afford. Never been fond of the owners down there, and some of this is definitely shady, but it’s hard to really blame anyone unless we’re missing something.