WASHINGTON   –  U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) was today awarded the “Guardian of Small Business Award” by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).

“It is a distinct honor to be recognized by the NFIB for standing up for our small businesses.  In Southern Missouri and across the nation, small businesses are our chief employers, they drive our economy, and they represent generations of effort to pass the fruit of their labors on to their children,” Emerson said.  “Smaller government, smarter tax policy, and a serious reconsideration of the health care and cap-and-trade bills passed in the U.S. House of Representatives this year are certainly in order.  Nothing is tougher on a small business than uncertainty, and we have to give our employers the benefit of the most positive, stable economic environment possible.”

The NFIB issued the following statement:

“In the 111th Congress, Representative Emerson proved that she’s a champion of small business.  The “Guardian of Small Business Award” is a token of the deep appreciation that small business owners have for elected officials who promote and protect their right to own, operate, and grow their businesses.”