In recognition of his efforts to create jobs by promoting opportunities for small businesses that drive our economy, U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-9) today received the Guardian of Small Business Award from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the leading small business association representing small and independent businesses.

“Small business is the engine that drives our economic growth, and I have made it a top priority to ensure that these hard-working folks have opportunities to create jobs and help grow our economy during these tough economic times,” Luetkemeyer said. “I remain committed to fighting for small business while opposing measures that stifle the spirit of entrepreneurship.”

Luetkemeyer has supported numerous pieces of legislation to strengthen our small businesses, including the  Small Business Liability Reform Act of 2010, which would limit liability costs to small businesses by reforming the litigation process and reducing insurance costs to small business owners. He also backs the Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act, which would provide relief to small business owners who would otherwise face a great tax reporting burden under the recently enacted health care bill. Additionally, Luetkemeyer sponsored and the House-passed legislation to make the SBA’s programs more responsive to the needs of our small businesses, including the Expanding Entrepreneurship Act of 2009 and theSmall Business Investment Company Modernization and Improvement Act of 2009, part of the Small Business Financing and Investment Act of 2009.

Luetkemeyer is a member of the House Small Business Committee and serves as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Rural Development, Entrepreneurship and Trade. Earlier this year, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce recognized Luetkemeyer with the Spirit of Enterprise Award for his efforts in Congress on behalf of small businesses.

###