Great Lakes Wire

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Michigan's prominent small business advocacy group, has announced the recipients of its Guardian of Small Business Award for the 2023-2024 session. This award is regarded as the organization's highest legislative honor.

Amanda Fisher, NFIB Michigan State Director, stated, "The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is presented to legislators who have proven themselves to be real champions of small business."

Fisher highlighted that over the past two years, Michigan faced significant challenges with legislation perceived as detrimental to small businesses. She expressed gratitude towards the House and Senate Republican Caucuses for their efforts in opposing these policies. Despite there being only eight individual winners, she acknowledged the broader support from these groups.

This year's awardees stood out not only due to their perfect voting records but also through their active participation in key committees and leadership roles advocating for small businesses and free enterprise. Fisher remarked on their collaboration with NFIB in promoting small business interests within a challenging legislative environment.

NFIB distinguishes itself by solely representing small and independent businesses. The organization emphasizes that its policy positions are determined by its members. Lawmakers are informed in advance about which votes will be considered critical by NFIB and are encouraged to align with the consensus views of its members. The outcomes of these votes are then communicated back to NFIB's membership.

The 2023-24 NFIB Michigan Guardian Award Winners include:

- Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt

- Senator Thomas Albert

- Senator Dan Lauwers

- Speaker Matt Hall

- Representative Mike Harris

- Representative Tom Kunse

- Representative David Martin

- Representative Dave Prestin