The Michigan Chamber of Commerce yesterday recognized 10 State Representatives as "Champions of Commerce" for earning 100 percent scores on the Chamber's 2007-2008 Legislative Voting Record: A Competitiveness Scorecard for Michigan.

The following State Representatives were presented with a "Champion of Commerce" award at the Michigan Chamber's Future Forum & Annual Meeting held yesterday at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing:

  -- Darwin Booher (R-Evart)
  -- Kevin Elsenheimer (R-Bellaire)
  -- Dave Hildenbrand (R-Lowell)
  -- Joe Hune (R-Hamburg Township)
  -- Marty Knollenberg (R-Troy)
  -- Phillip LaJoy (R-Canton)
  -- John Pastor (R-Livonia)
  -- David Robertson (R-Grand Blanc)
  -- Tonya Shuitmaker (R-Lawton)

"Actions often speak louder than words," said Michigan Chamber President & CEO Rich Studley. "Over the past 18 months, these 10 lawmakers have made an extraordinary effort to support Michigan's job providers by casting their votes in favor of legislation to encourage business investment and employment growth. We're grateful for their support. They are true champions of commerce."

The 2007-2008 Legislative Voting Record includes roll call votes on key business climate issues such as: education, energy, environmental quality, human resources, legal reform, tax policy, telecommunications and transportation. The voting record includes 21 roll call votes in the State House and 17 roll call votes in the Michigan Senate.

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce is a statewide business advocacy organization which represents more than 7,100 employers, trade associations and local chambers of commerce. The Michigan Chamber was established in 1959 to be an advocate for Michigan's job providers in the legislative, political and regulatory process.

SOURCE: Michigan Chamber of Commerce

CONTACT: Jim Holcomb of Michigan Chamber of Commerce, +1-517-371-2100

Web site: http://www.michamber.com/