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WASHINGTON, DC-The United States Chamber of Commerce today presented more than 300 lawmakers with its prestigious "Spirit of Enterprise" award for their support of pro-growth legislation during the second session of the 109th Congress at an award reception on Capitol Hill.

"While the political climate in Washington continues to change, it remains necessary for the business community to have leaders in Congress who are committed to economic expansion and job growth," said Tom Donohue, Chamber president and CEO.  "This award recognizes those lawmakers who have demonstrated leadership on important business issues such as trade, pension reform, and energy resource development."

The Chamber presents the award annually, and eligibility is based on how members of Congress vote on key business issues, which the Chamber outlines in its annual publication, How They Voted. 

These designated "key votes" are recorded floor votes on issues established as priorities by the Chamber's board of directors and on which the Chamber communicates its position prior to the vote.  Those members of Congress who support the Chamber's position on at least 70% of those votes receive the "Spirit of Enterprise" award.

The Chamber key-voted 12 Senate and 15 House votes in 2006, including comprehensive pension reform, extended tax relief, maritime and cargo security enhancements and the U.S./India nuclear agreement.  All told, 306 lawmakers received the award this year-248 in the House and 58 in the Senate.

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation, representing more than 3 million businesses of every size, sector and region.

 

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