Sen. Steve Litzow (R-Mercer Island) was recognized as a Guardian of Small Business for his work on behalf of small businesses during the 2011-12 legislative sessions.

The award is presented by the National Federation of Independent Business to lawmakers who have worked to promote policies that protect and encourage small and independent businesses.

Litzow represents the 41st Legislative District, which includes the southern portion of Bellevue.

“As a small-business owner myself, I know it takes great effort and resolve to establish, develop and maintain a company,” Litzow said. “I am pleased to have advocated on behalf of the individuals in our district who possess the passion to turn their own entrepreneurial ideas into real, independent businesses that are the driving force behind our local and global economies.”

The NFIB’s Washington chapter is a coalition of over 8,000 small businesses.