Billy Long receives Guardian of Small Business Award

(From Seventh District Congressman Billy Long)

In recognition of his commitment to protect small businesses, U.S. Rep. Billy Long received the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Guardian of Small Business Award.

            The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is given to members of the House and Senate who scored 70 percent or higher on votes affecting small businesses during the 112^th Congress.  Long’s votes in support of small businesses and free enterprise earned him an NFIB rating of 100 percent.  Founded in 1943, the NFIB is the leading non-profit, non-partisan small business association representing independent and small businesses.

            “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our nation’s economy,” Long said. “As a former small businessman, I know it is the hardworking small business owners and their employees who create jobs and new opportunities for American families and our nation, not elected officials in Washington.  I will continue to support efforts that allow small businesses to grow and prosper in a free market economy.”

            NFIB President and CEO Dan Danner praised Rep. Long for “standing for small business.” In presenting the group’s coveted Guardian of Small Business Award, Danner said, “Small-business owners pay close attention to how their lawmakers vote on the issues affecting their businesses and employees and stand by those who stand for them.”

            “The record shows that Rep. Billy Long is a true champion of small business, having stood strong on the key small-business votes in the 112th Congress,” said Danner. “This award reflects our members’ appreciation for supporting the NFIB pro-growth agenda for small business.”

            Long has supported efforts to ensure that our nation’s number one-job creators can compete in a free market economy.  In July, he rallied his freshman class of legislators in support of the effort to boost trade opportunities for American farmers and businesses by extending Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) status to Russia.  Long and 72 other freshman members in the House sent a letter to President Obama encouraging the president to move forward with free and fair trade with Russia.  Long and his colleagues support repealing a Cold War-era trade restriction so American businesses will not be at a disadvantage to international competitors with Russia joining the World Trade Organization.  While the U.S. already trades with Russia, the repeal of the Jackson-Vanik provision would level the playing field for U.S. exports with Russia.