New York Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie says raising the minimum wage, investing in education and supporting working families are his top priorities as lawmakers begin their work for 2016.

The Bronx Democrat tells the Associated Press Tuesday that other priorities for Democrats this year include support for child care and family leave.

The legislative session starts Wednesday. Democrats control the Assembly and Republicans lead the Senate.

Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo wants to gradually raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour.

Senate Deputy Majority Leader John DeFrancisco tells reporters the increase could harm small businesses.

The Syracuse Republican says he also expects proposals to address corruption but says the convictions of Silver and ex-Senate Leader Dean Skelos should put other legislators on notice that existing rules need to be followed.

(AP)