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Watson Continues Support for Small Business

Jacksonville, IL…. While consistently showing his support for independent business in the State of Illinois State, Rep. Jim Watson (R-Jacksonville) said he is proud of his 2006 voting record in regard to the small business community.  “Small-business owners in my district and across Illinois are the engine of our economy and vital to our communities, and I am proud to be a voice for them in Springfield.”

During the 2006 legislative session, Rep. Watson’s voting record was 100% with the concerns of the National Federation of Independent Business.  “NFIB is a melting pot of commercial enterprise; high-tech manufacturers and family farmers, neighborhood retailers and service companies” Watson said.  “I know that in working with them I can help ensure that small businesses have the opportunity to grow and flourish here in Illinois.”

Watson believes that putting Illinoisans back to work is the key to getting our economy and state budget back on track. Additional taxes and fees imposed on employers in recent years have given Illinois the unfortunate reputation of being unfriendly to business.  “There has been a direct correlation between these new taxes and fees and employers leaving Illinois - and taking good jobs with them,” said Watson. “We need to send the message that Illinois is a good place to start or expand a business.”

Adding that a vibrant small business sector is important for our economic health,

Watson said he looks forward to continuing his support of small business when legislators return to the state capitol for the fall veto session and the 2007 legislative session.  “Our small business owners are taking risks and pursuing dreams, and as a result, they are creating jobs for thousands of our citizens here in Illinois and millions across the country” Watson said. 

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