Calling her the “the torch bearer” for issues of importance to the state business community, the Florida Chamber of Commerce on Thursday named Sen. Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, as the 2018 Most Valuable Legislator for her “commitment to securing Florida’s future.

The award is given each year to honor a single lawmaker for their legislative leadership in taking a stand for free enterprise. Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber says that’s exactly what Passidomo did this past legislative session.

“Early during the 2018 legislative process, the Florida Chamber encouraged lawmakers to lower the cost of living, lower the cost of doing business and move Florida forward by putting long-term solutions ahead of short-term politics,” said Wilson. “The Florida Chamber applauds Senator Kathleen Passidomo for her hard work and leadership on behalf of Florida’s families and businesses.”

Passidomo, who is a small business owner herself, is considered by the Florida Chamber to be “a fearless and effective partner” in the effort to protect free enterprise. Wilson says she was recognized for attracting bipartisan support for pro-jobs legislation, taking on special interests that threatened Florida’s job creation, and fighting to keep Florida’s civil justice from getting worse.

“I am truly humbled to be recognized by the Floria Chamber of Commerce as their 2018 Most Valuable Legislator,” said Passidomo. “Legislative change doesn’t just happen overnight. It takes hard work, perseverance and collaborative effort. Working together with the Florida Chamber team, we have been able to advance policies that will have a lasting positive effect on Florida’s families and our business community.”

The announcement was made during the Florida Chamber’s Board of Directors meeting taking place this week in Palm Bay.

The Florida Chamber also released its annual publication How They Voted – a report that provides grades for all 155 legislators so business leaders can see how lawmakers voted on issues affecting job creation and economic growth.