At the conclusion of each General Assembly, the Illinois Chamber assesses the performance of every legislator based on their votes on key business-related bills. Our ratings track votes important to the state's business community and grade legislators based on their support for pro-business issues during the two-year legislative session.
Earlier this week, the Illinois Chamber released its full ratings and awards for the 103rd General Assembly. This includes the Bridge Builder Award, Champion of Free Enterprise Award, and Outstanding Freshman of the Year recognition.
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. The Illinois Chamber of Commerce also expresses its gratitude to the newly elected legislators in both houses who have demonstrated exceptional voting records, sponsored important legislation and have shown a collaborative spirit during their first two years in office. This is done through the Outstanding Freshman Award.
Upon release of the awards, Illinois Chamber President & CEO Lou Sandoval said the following: “As we seek to create a vibrant business climate for all businesses in Illinois, it is important to take time to recognize the members of the legislative body who have contributed to creating this vibrant climate. These awards are symbolic of that effort, and it is only fitting that we acknowledge their contributions and partnership with the chamber to make Illinois better for business. While we have some work to do in creating balance that supports employers, we seek to continue to work with all our legislators who foster a pro-growth, pro-business, and pro-Illinois approach to supporting business.”
View the list of awards recipients and legislative ratings for all members of the House and Senate please click here