JEFFERSON CITY—The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry awarded Sen. Gary Romine, R-Farmington, with the 2014 Freshman of the Year Award on Thursday, Nov. 20, at a reception in St. Louis. Senator Romine received the award for his outstanding commitment to growing Missouri businesses and supporting job creation.

“As a business owner, I understand the unique challenges that come with owning and running a successful company. I also realize how many companies do not succeed,” said Sen. Romine. “As a lawmaker, creating and supporting legislation that allows Missouri’s business community to flourish has always been a top priority of mine, and I am honored to be recognized by the Chamber for that commitment.”

Senator Romine’s diligent efforts during the 2014 session to help pass legislation (Senate Bill 844) extending the federal Shared-Work Program is one of the many reasons the senator received the Chamber’s award. The program allows employers to reduce permanent employees’ hours during periods of economic hardship rather than implementing layoffs. Employees are then able to collect partial unemployment benefits to supplement their lost income. The Shared-Work Program, which was used by more than 21,000 workers and 335 employers last year, would have ended in Missouri without action by the General Assembly. 

In addition to the Freshman of the Year Award, Sen. Romine was recognized as part of the Missouri Chamber 100% Club, which is a distinguished group of legislators who maintained a 100 percent voting record on priority business issues in 2014.

Senator Romine was elected in 2012 to serve Missouri's 3rd Senate District. He is a member of numerous committees, including the Jobs, Economic Development & Local Government Committee; the Missouri Works Job Training Joint Legislative Oversight Committee; and the Missouri Lead Industry Employment, Economic Development and Environmental Remediation Task Force (chair), among others.

Please visit Sen. Romine’s official Missouri Senate website at www.senate.mo.gov/romine.