By Ben Paviour
VPM/NPR, Jan 3, 2022
Business groups say they’re looking forward to what some say will be a warmer reception in Richmond after Republican gains in the November election. Lobbyists for some groups are looking to advance an agenda of tax cuts as well as rolling back some policies championed by Democrats in recent years, including statewide COVID safety regulations and further minimum wage increases. ...
Not all businesses share those priorities against the backdrop of a nationwide labor shortage. One group, Business for a Fair Minimum Wage, represents businesses from Buz and Ned’s Real Barbecue in Richmond to the outdoors retailer Patagonia who back a $15 minimum wage. The group’s vice president, Alissa Barron-Menza, said in a statement that raising the wage would “help businesses hire and retain employees, reducing turnover and increasing productivity.” ...