SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Chamber of Commerce has announced the 2022 Champion of Free Enterprise Award Winners and Freshmen of the year. These awards correspond with the release of the Illinois Chamber 102nd General Assembly Legislative Ratings.
This award is given by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce to legislators who work toward the advancement of economic opportunity for all Illinoisans and to those who have made special contributions to the defense and furtherance of free enterprise in our state.
The Illinois Chamber rated all members of the 102nd General Assembly based on each legislator’s votes on the key business-related legislation of the past two years. These bills of importance were determined by staff and the Illinois Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee and made known to members of the legislature.
The Champion of Free Enterprise Awards are given biennially to Senators and Representatives with Illinois Chamber ratings averaging 85 percent or higher over the previous two General Assemblies who have demonstrated their commitment to legislation that frees the entrepreneurial spirit.
“These legislators know what it takes to succeed in Illinois,” said Illinois Chamber President and CEO Todd Maisch. “Their important work on creating sound tax policy, supporting tech innovation, and cutting red tape whenever possible strengthens our state’s job climate. These legislators, many of whom have first-hand business experience themselves, are true leaders in the General Assembly and embody what it means to be a Champion of Free Enterprise. We are proud to honor their constant commitment to the betterment of the Illinois economy with this award.”
With over 10,000 bills and resolutions introduced in 102nd General Assembly, these 22 votes in the Senate and House were scrupulously selected based on their potential impact on the Illinois economy and members of the business community. None of the bills used in the report are weighted, as there were an adequate number of bills voted on during this General Assembly.
“We believe the Chamber’s legislative ratings are an effective tool in accountability and commitment to economic growth for our elected officials. These ratings spotlight for the business community, and the public at-large, who has their back in Springfield,” said Illinois Chamber of Commerce Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Clark Kaericher. “The Chamber thanks our award winners for their dedication to a stronger and more prosperous Illinois.”
Click here to view the 102nd General Assembly Legislative Ratings: