Washington, D.C. - The National Retail Federation (NRF) and National Taxpayers Union (NTU) celebrated U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) for his votes on tax reform, regulatory relief, economic freedom, and other policies that boost small businesses by naming him a “Hero of Main Street” and a “Taxpayers’ Friend.” These awards demonstrate Risch's commitment to growing the economy and improving the regulatory environment for small business owners and all Americans.

“American families and small business owners struggled for years under the previous Administration’s failed economic policies and crippling regulations,” said Senator Risch, chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. “Fortunately, this Republican Congress and Administration have worked together to right the ship. Since passing the historic, decades overdue tax reform package, Americans have experienced one of the best economies in recent history. The positive effects of regulatory reform are reflected by record-breaking small business optimism, the booming job market, and the lowest unemployment rate since 1970. These results are encouraging and will continue to drive our work improving the economy for the American people.”  

The Hero of Main Street award is bestowed upon those who support policies that recognize the contributions of the retail industry, and who work to encourage a “vibrant, sustained and healthy” retail sector. The National Taxpayers Union rates a Member’s voting record on fiscal responsibility by evaluating every vote that has an impact on tax, spending, trade, and regulatory policy utilizing a methodical weighting system.

“Retailers and consumers are feeling good about the state of the U.S. economy, and a big part of that is the result of lawmakers who have made economic growth and job creation a top priority,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “As a Hero of Main Street, Senator Risch truly understands that the decisions made in Washington have a real impact on local businesses and communities across the country.”

“Only lawmakers with a voting record that is the best-of-the-best will earn NTU’s Taxpayers’ Friend Award,” said Pete Sepp, president of NTU. “Senator Risch has demonstrated a tireless commitment to supporting taxpayers’ interests in Washington, and a dedication to solving the government’s tax-and-spend problems with action rather than just words. Fixing America’s budget problems takes hard work, and Senator Risch has been doing that work every single day.”