RICHMOND, Va. (AP) _ A Democratic state senator and liberal advocates are pushing for an increasing to Virginia’s minimum wage. Sen. Dave Marsden of Fairfax County said at a Capitol news conference Tuesday that he hopes Virginia will join the increasing number of states that are increasing their minimum wages. Marsden has introduced legislation for the 2015 session that would gradually increase the state’s minimum wage to $10.10 by 2017. Marsden said his bill would help the poor become self-sufficient and promote spending that would help state businesses. A proposed minimum wage hike faces a steep climb in the General Assembly. Similar legislation failed to pass the GOP-controlled House during this year’s legislative session.
