The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) recently presented Rep. John Shimkus (R-Ill.) with its Guardian of Small Business award for his voting record during the 113th Congress.
The award is presented annually to lawmakers who vote favorably on key small business issues. The group examined 10 key House votes between January 2013 and July 2014, and noted that Shimkus had a 100-percent voting record.
“I visit businesses, small and large, nearly every week across the 15th District, and I hear their stories of out-of- control government rules and regulations, high taxes, and difficulty in filling job vacancies,” Shimkus said.
In legislation related to independent businesses, Shimkus voted in favor of the Northern Route Approval Act, which would create more jobs and lower energy costs for businesses; the Fairness for American Families Act, which delayed the Affordable Care Act’s requirement for individuals; and the Lawsuit Abuse Reduction Act, which reduces frivolous lawsuits.
“Knowing that NFIB is watching our votes and recognizing that the House is listening helps when I have to explain that the business climate for job creation can be better if we make some of these changes in both Springfield and Washington,” he said.