NFIB has presented Guardian of Small Business Awards to state Sen. Josh Harkins (District 20) and Rep. Trey Lamar (District 8) for their work in this year’s session of the Mississippi Legislature. The Guardian of Small Business Award is the most prestigious honor that NFIB bestows on lawmakers in recognition of their efforts to support small businesses. The NFIB Mississippi Leadership Council, an advisory board comprised of NFIB members, voted to present the award to Senator Harkins and Representative Lamar for their outstanding leadership on small business issues.

“Senator Harkins serves as chairman of the Senate Finance Committee which is instrumental in setting tax policy for Mississippi,” NFIB State Director Dawn McVea said. “He brings his small business background to the table when considering state tax policy. He understands that a simple, flat, and fair tax code will help small businesses grow and thrive. Since entering the legislature, Senator Harkins has supported a business-friendly environment in Mississippi that allows the most flexibility and is free of overly burdensome regulations.

“As chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Representative Lamar has played a crucial role in setting tax policy for the state of Mississippi,” McVea said. “He worked tirelessly this term to help small business owners in a number of ways, from COVID-19 recovery grants to recent tax reform legislation. Representative Lamar understands when small business owners are able to grow, the Mississippi economy grows, too.

“Senator Harkins and Representative Lamar have shown us they clearly understand the challenges facing Main Street Mississippi and worked tireless to create and maintain an environment that allows small businesses to grow and create jobs,” McVea said. “On behalf of our small business members from throughout the state, I’m proud to present them with this award.”