Wisconsin lawmaker aims to increase state minimum wage to $15 an hour

MADISON (AP) — A Wisconsin lawmaker says she wants to double the state's minimum wage, calling the matter a civil rights issue.

At a Tuesday press conference at the Capitol, Rep. Melissa Sargent, a Madison Democrat, introduced a bill that would increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour. The current minimum wage is $7.25 an hour.

Sargent said the state's minimum wage is "unlivable" and forces employees to sacrifice health care and other needs to survive.

Supporters held signs that said "fight for 15" and cheered.

The bill faces long odds. Republicans control Assembly and Senate chambers.

Spokeswomen for Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald didn't immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday.