Praising his work in protecting Illinois’ entrepreneurs and small owner-operators, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has named State Senator Chuck Weaver (R-Peoria) as a “Guardian of Small Business.”

“It’s an honor to be recognized for my work toward helping our local businesses grow jobs and expand,” said Senator Weaver. “Small businesses and farms represent the heart and soul of our state’s economy. If we want to grow our economy, we have to make sure our businesses are successful.”

NFIB is Illinois' largest small-business association with over 11,000 dues-paying members representing a cross section of the state’s economy. The “Guardian of Small Business” is awarded to lawmakers based on their voting record. According to the association, Senator Weaver voted to help small businesses 100% of the time.

“Right now Illinois government can make it hard to grow and succeed as a business, and we’ve got to see that change for the better before it’s too late,” said Win Stoller, co-owner of Peoria-based Widmer Interiors. “It’s very important that we have legislators like Chuck who understand how we can make that happen.”

Senator Weaver grew up on a family farm near Peoria Illinois, then served as the president of his family’s restaurant business. He is still active in the private sector, focusing on investments that create jobs for Illinois residents.

“During his first term in the Illinois Senate, Senator Weaver has proven that he will stand up for the small business owners that make up the majority of the Illinois business community,” said Kim Clarke Maisch, Illinois Director for the NFIB. “We need more legislators like Senator Weaver who will fight to grow jobs and rebuild our state economy.”