James Sanders Jr. was elected to the New York State Senate on September 13, 2012. He represents the 10th Senatorial District in Queens, which includes the neighborhoods of South Jamaica, Rochdale Village, Rosedale, Richmond Hill, South Ozone Park, Springfield Gardens and most of the Rockaways. Senator Sanders is the ranking Democrat on the Civil Services & Pensions Committee. He also serves on the Commerce, Economic Development & Small Business Committee, Banks Committee, Insurance Committee, Labor Committee, Veterans, Homeland Security & Military Affairs Committee, Cultural Affairs & Tourism Committee, and Racing, Gaming & Wagering Committee. During his time in the legislature, Senator Sanders has been a fierce advocate for working people, families and unions. In his first term in office, he introduced the Fair Wage Act, which would increase the statewide minimum wage to $10.10 per hour, indexed to inflation, and allowing municipalities to set their own minimum wage up to $13.13, understanding that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work for places like New York City.