By Staff
WASHINGTON, DC - The United States Chamber of Commerce has presented Congressman Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph) with its prestigious "Spirit of Enterprise" award for his strong support for a pro-economic growth legislative agenda in the first session of the 109th Congress. Upton was recognized for his strong support of comprehensive energy legislation, the highway bill, class action reform and medical liability reform.
"Fred is a leader who has fought for legislation to spur job creation, increase productivity, and keep our economy growing," said Thomas J. Donohue, Chamber President and CEO. "We're proud to present him with this award on behalf of America's businesses, both large and small."
The Chamber awards the "Spirit of Enterprise" based on rankings it gives members of Congress for key business votes outlined in its annual publication, How They Voted. Upton scored 89 percent with the Chamber last year and has compiled a 93 percent cumulative ranking during his tenure in Congress.
"Small businesses make up the vast majority of employers in Michigan and across the country," said Upton. "Quite simply, without employers there will be no employees. It is the small businesses throughout Southwest Michigan that have helped stop the bleeding, enabling the region to weather the economic downturn that we've endured over the last several years. And it is small business that will return our region to economic prosperity. Congress must continue to pass policies that encourage prosperity and growth among small businesses. That's the way to create more high paying jobs and boost our local economy."
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.