Richmond, Virginia – Today, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2024 Legislative Awards. These awards recognize members of the General Assembly for their support and advocacy of the recommendations outlined in the Chamber’s long-term strategic plan, Blueprint Virginia 2030.

Blueprint Virginia 2030 seeks to ensure the Commonwealth strengthens and secures its position as a leader in the global economy and is the best state in the nation for business. The Virginia Chamber developed Blueprint Virginia with input from over 7,000 stakeholders in business, economic development, workforce development, education, housing, and other industries to ensure statewide representation of priorities for Virginia’s economic prosperity.

“Legislators play an important role in maintaining Virginia’s reputation as the top state for business,” said Barry DuVal, President and CEO of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce. “Today, we are proud to recognize the legislators who have supported the Commonwealth’s business community and the goals of Blueprint Virginia 2030.”

The Virginia Chamber recognized Speaker Don Scott (D – Portsmouth), Senator Mamie Locke (D – Newport News), and Delegate Betsy Carr (D – Richmond), with the Champion of Free Enterprise Award.

“I am honored to receive the Champion of Free Enterprise Award,” said Speaker Don Scott. “Virginia has become a leading destination for business thanks to our strong partnerships and effective policies. As we move forward, we’ll keep building on this foundation to secure even brighter opportunities for all Virginians. Together, we’re fostering a thriving Virginia economy and making the Commonwealth the best place to work, innovate, and build a future.”

“I am honored to receive the 2024 Champion of Free Enterprise Award from the Virginia Chamber of Commerce. To be a part of the collaboration that continues to enable the Commonwealth to be the number one place for business is a priority that I take seriously. I am grateful to play even a small role,” said Senator Mamie E. Locke, Ph.D.

“I am honored to receive this recognition from the Virginia Chamber, and I look forward to continuing to work with them to strengthen Virginia’s economy for all families, make us the best state for business, and create jobs and opportunities to help all Virginians thrive,” said Delegate Betsy Carr.

Delegate Rae Cousins (D – Richmond) and Delegate David Owen (R – Henrico), were both named the 2024 Freshmen Legislators of the Year.

“I am honored to receive the 2024 Freshman Legislator of the Year award from the Virginia Chamber of Commerce,” said Delegate Rae Cousins. “All Virginians deserve access to economic opportunities and the skills needed to thrive in today’s economy, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Chamber to foster economic growth and create opportunities for every Virginian to succeed.”

“I am humbled and honored to receive the 2024 Freshman Legislator of the Year Award,” said Delegate David Owen. “From day one, I’ve been dedicated to advancing policies that empower small businesses, reduce government overreach, and strengthen our local economy.”

Several Virginia legislators were honored with the Free Enterprise Award including:

Senator Tara Durant (R – Fredericksburg)

Delegate Ellen Campbell (R – Rockbridge)

Delegate Sam Rasoul (D – Roanoke)

Delegate Briana Sewell (D – Prince William)

Delegate Anne Ferrell Tata (R – Virginia Beach)

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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 33,000 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 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.