The National Federation of Independent Business presented state Senator Arthur Orr with its Guardian of Small Business Award on Tuesday, recognizing the Republican lawmaker’s record on small-business issues during his two decades in the Legislature. The award follows the organization’s recent endorsement of Orr.
Orr, who represents Senate District 3, which covers Morgan, Madison and Limestone counties, received the award at the Decatur-Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau. NFIB said Orr has maintained a 100 percent voting record on its legislative priorities throughout his 20 years in office and is a longtime member of the organization.
“Sen. Orr understands the challenges small-business owners face and has worked hard to address them,” NFIB State Director Rosemary Elebash said. “He has been a strong voice for lower taxes, less paperwork and policies that help owners grow their businesses and create jobs.”
The organization cited Orr’s work on legislation involving unemployment taxes, apprenticeship tax credits and business paperwork, as well as measures addressing property owners’ rights and liability protections for businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Orr, first elected to the Senate in 2006, chairs the Senate Finance and Taxation Education Committee and serves on the Finance and Taxation General Fund Committee. Those assignments allow him to influence legislation involving state revenue and education funding.
Among the measures NFIB highlighted is Alabama’s apprenticeship tax credit, which provides credits to qualifying employers that hire apprentices. The program aims to encourage employers to invest in workforce training and help workers develop skills for in-demand jobs.
The Guardian of Small Business Award is NFIB’s highest recognition for lawmakers who support its small-business policy priorities. The organization evaluates legislators based on their votes on issues it identifies as important to small-business owners.
“His perfect voting record over two decades shows a lasting commitment to Alabama’s small businesses,” Elebash said. “We’re proud to recognize Sen. Orr for his leadership and his continued support of our members.”
