PRESS RELEASE: VIRGINIA CHAMBER ANNOUNCES THE RECIPIENTS OF LEGISLATORS OF THE YEAR AND FREE ENTERPRISE AWARDS FOR PRO-BUSINESS SUPPORT DURING 2022 LEGISLATIVE SESSION

Richmond, Virginia – Moments ago, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of the 2022 Legislators of the Year, Freshman Legislator of the Year and Free Enterprise Award. Recipients were the first among many that are to be awarded Free Enterprise Awards throughout 2022 at Virginia Chamber signature events. These awards recognize legislators for their support for the principles and initiatives outlined in the Chamber’s long-term economic development plan, Blueprint Virginia 2030. 

“The Virginia Chamber of Commerce recognizes the vital role that Virginia state legislators play in the implementation of initiatives that foster economic development and job growth,” said Barry DuVal, president, and CEO of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce. “Today, we recognize a few of the legislators that have played an integral role in supporting the goals of Blueprint 2030 and look forward to recognizing other legislators at future conferences and events this year.”

The Virginia Chamber recognized Senator George Barker as 2022 Senate Legislator of the Year, and Delegate Israel O’Quinn as 2022 House Legislator of the Year. 

“I am honored to be the Virginia Chamber of Commerce Legislator of the Year”, said Senator George Barker. I have seen what we could do and have worked tirelessly to make sure that the Commonwealth has made the best fiscal and policy decisions to bolster our economy and not only survive the pandemic but to come out of it stronger. From ensuring that our businesses did not shoulder the burdens of reinsurance, replenishing the unemployment trust fund, and paying taxes on public loans to increasing access to quality healthcare for our real estate professionals and others, I have made sure that decisions are made with integrity and am proud of the work my colleagues and I have done on a bipartisan basis to maintain Virginia’s position as the best state for business.” 

“Virginia’s business community is the backbone of our economy playing a vital role in the Commonwealth’s ability to serve its citizens. I am grateful to the Virginia Chamber of Commerce for selecting me as the Legislator of the Year,” said Delegate Israel O’Quinn. As a proud supporter of the business community and the Chamber’s advocacy efforts, I am honored by this recognition. I look forward to continuing to work alongside the Chamber to drive economic growth in the Commonwealth.”

Delegate Anne Ferrell Tata was awarded the 2022 Freshman Legislator of the year. 

The Virginia Chamber recognized Senator Scott Surovell, Delegate Lee Ware, and Delegate Carrie Coyner with the Free Enterprise Award. 

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About the Virginia Chamber of Commerce:
The Virginia Chamber of Commerce is the largest business advocacy organization in the Commonwealth, with more than 28,000 members. The Chamber is a non-partisan, business advocacy organization that works in the legislative, regulatory and political arenas to act as the catalyst for positive change in all areas of economic development and competitiveness for Virginia. In December 2021, the Chamber released its new statewide strategic economic development plan, Blueprint Virginia 2030, which has engaged over 7,000 business, economic development, workforce, education, housing, and other community leaders to lay out a plan to ensure Virginia remains at the top of national business climate rankings. Learn more at  www.blueprintvirginia.org.