The Virginia Chamber of Commerce today released its 2013 Legislative Report Card, which grades legislators based on their support of pro-business issues during the recently completed legislative session. Calculated annually based on legislators’ voting records on the principles and issues outlined in Where We Stand: The Virginia Chamber of Commerce 2013 Legislative Priorities, the Legislative Report Card recognizes legislators for their support on initiatives that will help move Virginia forward, and additionally provides analysis of a legislator’s support for the business community’s priorities. 

 “The Legislative Report Card allows us to recognize and honor legislators who uphold free market principles and support the interests of the business community,” said Barry DuVal, President and CEO of the Virginia Chamber.  “In addition, it provides analysis of a legislator’s support for the business community’s priorities.”

This year, 86 Legislators earned a grade of “A,” and 28 Legislators were awarded with the Champion of Free Enterprise Award for their 100% voting record. House of Delegates Speaker William J. Howell was named the 2013 Legislator of the Year.  During the General Assembly session, Speaker Howell led the fight to strengthen Virginia’s economy, establish predictability and stability with Virginia’s business climate and support private-sector job creation. 

The following legislators are also recognized for their leadership in the following areas:

The Legal Reform Advocate Award— Delegates Chris Head, Todd Gilbert, Sal Iaquinto, Greg Habeeb, Ben Cline, David Albo and Terry Kilgore and Senators Tommy Norment, Richard Stuart and Bryce Reeves

Excellence in Education and Workforce Training Award—Delegates Kirk Cox and David Yancey and Senator Harry Blevins

Economic Competitiveness Award— Delegates Chris Jones and David Albo and Senators Frank Wagner and Janet Howell

Leadership in Energy Award—Delegate Terry Kilgore and Senator Dick Saslaw

To view the full 2013 Legislative Report Card, click here