US Chamber of Commerce awards members of Congress for supporting business growth

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recognized 266 representatives in the House as well as 55 members of the Senate for their support of growth policies during the second session of the 114th Congress.

The Spirit of Enterprise Award is given annually by the Chamber and recognizes members of Congress who have shown a commitment to free enterprise and economic growth, President and CEO of the Chamber Thomas Donohue said.

“The Spirit of Enterprise Award recognizes those members of Congress who have done what’s right for our friends, family, and neighbors running businesses across the country,” Donohue said upon announcing this year's honorees. 

“Businesses of all shapes and sizes need sound, common sense policy in place in order to get off the ground, grow, and succeed,” he added.

The decision was made based on how the recipients voted on business legislation and whether they supported the Chamber’s position about 70 percent of the time.

This year’s scoring took into account eight Senate votes and 14 House votes in the area of capital for small business, skilled workforce and manufacturing. The Chamber also considered votes involving the U.S. water infrastructure system, protection of intellectual property and energy policy.

The award is in its 29th year.