Austin — Today, state Sen. Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) was named a fighter for free enterprise by the Texas Association of Business.

"As a former business owner, I know how important pro-business policies are to creating jobs and economic growth in Texas," said Nichols. "State government should help everyday entrepreneurs, not get in their way."

In his hometown of Jacksonville, Nichols built four successful manufacturing facilities, earned 32 U.S. patents, and created more than 900 jobs for East Texas families.

The Texas Association of Business praised Nichols voting record from the last session.

"By voting for the interests of Texas' business, Senator Nichols also supported all of the taxpayers of Texas," said Bill Hammond, President and CEO of the Texas Association of Business. "Without a strong business climate, Texas won't have new jobs, the economy will stagnate and the collection of tax dollars for state and local governments and schools will fall dramatically. Sen. Nichols understands that, and took the steps needed to ensure Texas' business climate stays healthy."

To determine legislators' scores, the Texas Association of Business used a total of 35 votes (20 in the House and 15 in the Senate) to score lawmakers. These votes accurately represent the most critical bills that TAB supported or opposed.

Founded in 1922, the Texas Association of Business is a broad-based, bipartisan organization representing more than 3,000 small and large Texas employers and 200 local chambers of commerce.

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