Illinois State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) has been named a Champion of Free Enterprise, an award given by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce to legislators who have made special contributions to the defense of free enterprise, and the furtherance of economic opportunities for Illinoisans. Meier was one of three State Representatives to earn a 100% pro-jobs rating from the Illinois Chamber of Commerce.
“Advocating for more jobs and economic development in my district is a top priority,” said Rep. Meier. “I’m honored to be recognized by the business community for my pro-jobs voting record. We have to work that much harder to keep and attract businesses in the region due to our proximity to Missouri. I will continue to promote our region as the best location for businesses to call home and to expand their business.”
The Illinois Chamber rated all members of the 101st General Assembly based on legislators’ votes on the key business legislation as determined by staff and the Illinois Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee.
The Champion of Free Enterprise Awards are given biennially to members 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.
“We couldn’t ask for a more business friendly legislator than Rep. Meier,” said Illinois Chamber President and CEO Todd Maisch. “He doesn’t just talk about being pro-business, he votes pro-business -every time, as proven by his 100 percent rating. We are proud to give him this award to honor his commitment to promoting free enterprise and creating more economic opportunity in his district and around the state.”
The votes in the Senate and House are selected based on their impact on 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.
“It is our job to educate our members on the record of their representatives and hold them accountable for it,” said Illinois Chamber Vice President of Government Affairs Clark Kaericher. “We believe the Chamber’s legislative ratings are an effective tool in determining that accountability and commitment to economic growth.”