SPRINGFIELD – State Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) has been named a Champion of Free Enterprise by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce for her contributions to the defense of free enterprise and job opportunities for all Illinoisans.

Sen. Tracy has also received the Chamber’s inaugural Bridge Builder Award, which recognizes two lawmakers from each legislative chamber who display a willingness and effectiveness in reaching across the aisle to work together to make Illinois a more attractive place to conduct business.

“It’s an honor to have my work on behalf of the businesses and residents of western Illinois recognized with a Champion of Free Enterprise Award, as well as a Bridge Builder Award,” Sen. Tracy said. “Economic development in our communities has long been a priority, and I have found that working together for the common good makes our entire state a better place to live. A strong jobs climate helps all Illinois residents.”

The Illinois Chamber’s staff and Government Affairs Committee rated all members of the 103rd General Assembly based on legislators’ votes on key business legislation. As one of the largest business voices in the state, the Illinois Chamber represents a wide range of employers, from small entrepreneurs to large international companies located in every community in Illinois.

“Senator Tracy is recognized as one of the business community’s most reliable advocates in the Legislature,” said Illinois Chamber President and CEO Lou Sandoval. “She works hard for the businesses in her communities and throughout Illinois because she knows that economic opportunity is the gateway to a stronger Illinois. As someone who reaches across the aisle on behalf of our businesses, we are proud to give Senator Tracy this recognition as well as our inaugural Bridge Builder Award. We look forward to working with her to create a stronger business climate and a stronger Illinois.”

Click here to view the list of award winners and a summary of the bills that were used in the ranking process.