Clare lawmaker earns recognition for 2023-2024 term

The National Federation of Independent Business last week honored state Rep. Tom Kunse with its prestigious Guardian of Small Business Award for his efforts to support local Michigan businesses and their workers during the 2023-2024 legislative session.

The award recognizes legislators who consistently support policies that promote economic opportunity for Michigan entrepreneurs and workers to succeed. In 2023 and 2024, Kunse supported tax relief for small businesses; opposed increases to taxes, fees, and energy costs; and advocated to reverse a dangerous Michigan Supreme Court ruling that is set to take effect in February and impose new burdens on Michigan small businesses and workers.

“Having been a small business owner for over three decades, I know firsthand the challenges faced by these operations across Michigan,” Kunse said. “I’m honored to receive this award recognizing my efforts, but the job is far from complete. We must continue pushing policies that protect our small businesses and draw back government overreach.”

The NFIB exclusively represents small and independent businesses, and the organization advocates for policy positions determined by its membership. Amanda Fisher, NFIB Michigan state director, praised Kunse’s work to support Michigan small businesses.

“Representative Tom Kunse has distinguished himself beyond his 100% 2023-24 Voting Record,” Fisher said. “As a member of the House Labor Committee, Representative Kunse was a staunch advocate for small business. Whenever anti-small business legislation was brought before the Committee, he never hesitated to passionately speak out against policies that would have hurt small businesses and free enterprise in Michigan. We are delighted to be able to present Tom with this award and show our gratitude for all he has done for small business.”

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