Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,C,I,Ref-Canandaigua) has been recognized by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) with the 2018 Guardian Award. This award is the organization’s highest honor and is given to elected officials for their leadership and commitment to New York State’s small businesses. It is the eighth time Leader Kolb has received the Guardian Award.

”I am sincerely grateful to receive this distinguished recognition, and proud to work alongside NFIB and New York State Director Greg Biryla to help small businesses across the state succeed in today’s challenging environment,” Leader Kolb said. “As the only legislative leader who has owned and run a business, I truly understand the uphill battle that business owners face on a daily basis. I will always advocate on their behalf, because the quality of life New Yorkers enjoy is tied directly to the prosperity of our job-creating small businesses.”

“New York’s small and independent businesses drive our economy, create jobs in our communities and provide opportunities for our future. Small business owners feel the impact of decisions made in Albany every day and they pay attention to how their representatives vote on the issues that matter most,” said Greg Biryla, NFIB’s New York State Director. “Leader Kolb’s record is clear: he has been a fierce advocate for common-sense policies and reforms that will grow the small business economy, advance free enterprise and make New York more affordable.”

Leader Kolb was the only legislative leader and one of nine lawmakers in Albany to receive the 2018 Guardian Award. In the State Assembly, only three lawmakers were recognized by NFIB - Leader Kolb, Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (112^th AD) and Assemblyman Angelo Morinello (145^th AD). More information can be found on the NFIB website.