Ryder recognizes Florida congressman for supporting manufacturers

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Florida Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.) recently received the National Association of Manufacturers Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence in recognition of his consistent support of manufacturers and their employees across the United States.

The Award was presented at an event sponsored by NAM member Ryder System Inc. in Miami. Members of Congress who maintained a voting record of 70 percent or higher during the 111th Congress (2009-2010) received the award. Diaz-Balart received a 72-percent key vote rating.

“On behalf of Ryder System and our employees, I thank Congressman Diaz-Balart for championing the causes that will help manufacturers thrive in Florida and across the United States,” says Greg Swienton, Ryder chairman and chief executive officer. “We’re fortunate to have Mario Diaz-Balart in our corner, advocating policies that will enable us to grow, create jobs, expand internationally and stay ahead of our global competition.”

Each key vote was selected by a NAM member-led advisory committee comprised of executives from small, mid-sized and large manufacturing companies. Members of Congress are notified in advance when key votes are pending and why the key vote designation has been made.

“Congressman Diaz-Balart supports common-sense policies that will enable manufacturers to create and maintain good high-paying jobs in Florida and throughout America,” says Jay Timmons, NAM president and CEO. “A vibrant manufacturing base is vital to getting our economy turned around and ensuring quality of life for all Americans. It is critical to have lawmakers like Congressman Diaz-Balart whose actions consistently match their words when it comes to a pro-manufacturing agenda for economic growth and job creation.”

Key manufacturing votes for the 111th Congress included energy policy, taxes, regulations and labor law reform, among others. These policies are important components of the NAM’s “Manufacturing Strategy for Jobs and a Competitive America,” a comprehensive plan for supporting jobs and the U.S. economy.

“The Award is a nonpartisan indicator to help manufacturers and their employees sort out the true allies of manufacturing based on their votes on key issues that affect the manufacturing economy, jobs and U.S. competitiveness,” Timmons says.