The Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc. presented the 2004 IEC Lawmaker Awards in the U.S. Capitol during its Legislative Conference Awards Breakfast last week.
The IEC recognized Sen. Jim Talent (R-MO) and Congressmen Todd Akin (R-MO), Cass Ballenger (R-NC), John Carter (R-TX), Trent Franks (R-AZ), J.D. Hayworth (R-AZ), Sam Johnson (R-Texas), John Sullivan (R-OK), and John Shimkus (R-IL).
"We are honored to recognize these lawmakers for their efforts in Washington on behalf of independent electrical contractors," says IEC National President J.B. Wise. "It is fantastic to have members of Congress who understand the needs and concerns of small business; these are truly outstanding leaders, and we look forward to their continued support of small business interests."
Sen. Talent was honored for his efforts driving the enactment of Association Health Plans. Wise says that without Talent's support, AHPs would never have surfaced to the top of the healthcare debate in the Senate.
Akin was recognized for understanding the devastation salting causes to thousands of merit shop contractors each year. As chairman of the Workforce Empowerment and Government Programs Subcommittee of the House Small Business Committee, Akin held the first salting hearing this past winter.
Ballenger was recognized for his long career in the House where he actively sought to reign in the power of the National Labor Relations Board, eliminate project labor agreements and prevent salting abuse.
Carter accepted the award for his efforts to end salting abuse.
"It is time to take the sting out of salting abuse," Carter notes. "We must end this destructive practice and finally level the playing field for Independent Electrical Contractors."
Elected in 2002, Franks received the award for distinguishing himself in just two years. He serves on the small business committee as well as the Budget Committee and has worked to lift the regulatory burdens facing small business.
Hayworth received the award for his efforts to curtail project labor agreements.
Johnson accepted the award for his leadership as chairman of the Employer-Employee Relations Subcommittee of the House Education and Workforce Committee.
"As one of the driving forces behind the nation's economic recovery, IEC should have the opportunity to compete on projects funded with tax payer dollars," Johnson says.
Wise says that in only two years, Sullivan distinguished himself as a lawmaker who can be depended upon. He has sought to address many industry issues, such as PLAs, and is a champion for small business.
A champion for small business interests since his tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives started in 1997, Shimkus was honored for his commitment to IEC and its interests.
The IEC is based in Alexandria, VA. For more information visit www.ieci.org.
