SPRINGFIELD, IL—Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) was honored with the United States Chamber of Commerce’s Spirit of Enterprise Award this morning in Springfield, IL. The U.S. Chamber’s prestigious Spirit of Enterprise Award is given annually to members of Congress based on their votes on critical business legislation. Every year, the U.S. Chamber presents awards to legislators who exhibit a record of commitment to Enterprise and the pro-business agenda of the U.S. Chamber. The event took place at the Sangamon Club as part of the Central Illinois Regional Chamber Legislative Effort’s (CIRCLE) Legislative Lobby Day.
“Creating jobs and growing the economy is one of my top priorities in Congress. Businesses are one of the pillars of our economy, meeting customer needs, employing workers, and generating revenue. I am honored to receive this award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, today,” stated Rep. LaHood. “I, in turn, want to applaud businesses who face stringent government intervention and regulations, and who still persevere to accomplish their company missions. I am determined to continue to advocate for a pro-business and a pro-growth agenda in Washington—through tax reform, regulatory reform, and increased trade opportunities.”
“We are pleased to recognize Congressman LaHood for engaging in pro-business policymaking that helps strengthen our nation’s spirit of enterprise,” said Tom Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “The Spirit of Enterprise Award honors those members of Congress who are committed to ensuring that American businesses can continue to operate and succeed in a free enterprise system.”=
Members who support the Chamber's position on at least 70% of outlined votes qualify to receive the award. Rep. LaHood was a member during 10 of the 20 scored votes. He had the “correct” vote for seven of those 10, or 70%.
Rep. LaHood’s voting record included a number of measures that have a significant effect on businesses and enterprise, including the FAST Act (H.R. 22), Every Student Succeeds Act (S. 1177), the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644), and the Oil Export Ban (H.R. 702).
