Forbes Receives U.S. Chamber of Commerce Award for Commitment to Small Businesses

Congressman J. Randy Forbes (VA-04) was presented today with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce “Spirit of the Enterprise” Award for his strong voting record on pro-business issues during the first session of the 111^th Congress.

"Our nation’s small businesses employee half of our nation’s private work force. Yet, when it comes to economic recovery, many lawmakers in Washington have largely brushed aside this important engine of our economy and focused instead on bailing out large corporations. Small businesses have always been the backbone of our economy, and now more than ever it is important that we continue to look for ways to strengthen and support them through tax relief and other pro-growth policies,” said Forbes.

Eligibility for the award is based on how Members of Congress vote on key business issues, which the Chamber outlines in its annual publication How They Voted. These designated “key votes” are recorded floor votes on issues established as priorities on which the Chamber communicates its position prior to the vote.

According to the scorecard, Representative Forbes maintained an 86% rating with the Chamber this session and collectively holds a 90% ranking during his tenure in Congress. The Chamber scored Congress on 15 House votes in 2009, including the economic stimulus package and both the House and Senate healthcare reform bills.

“The Chamber applauds Representative Forbes for supporting the private sector and job growth through these difficult times,” said Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber. “He has demonstrated great courage and we commend him.”

As the world's largest business federation, the United States Chamber of Commerce represents more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region. For more information on the Chamber of Commerce or this award visit www.uschamber.com.