By Jim Beam

Seven Southwest Louisiana Republican legislators were among 40 state lawmakers named to the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry’s “Most Valuable Policymakers” list.

The seven scored a perfect 100 percent on bills important to LABI and the state’s business community during the 2021 legislative session. They and others will be honored Nov. 11 at the 2021 Free Enterprise Awards at the LABI Center for Free Enterprise in Baton Rouge.

Sens. Mark Abraham of Lake Charles, Heather Cloud of Turkey Creek, and Mike Reese of Leesville and Reps. Les Farnum of Sulphur, Charles Owen of Rosepine; Troy Romero of Jennings and Phillip Tarver of Lake Charles made the Most Valuable list.

Former Sen. Ronnie Johns, R-Sulphur, and Rep. Ryan Bourriaque, R-Abbeville, were among 21 who made the “All-Stars” list. They scored 90 percent or higher on legislation important to LABI and Louisiana employers during the 2021 session.

Republican Reps. R. Dewith Carrier of Oakdale, Brett Geymann of Moss Bluff and Rodney Schamerhorn of Hornbeck were “Honorable Mentions” who scored 80 percent or higher in legislation important to LABI.

Stephen Waguespack, president and CEO of LABI, said, “During this difficult year, filled with pandemic woes, extreme weather and even supply chain disruptions, companies and individuals all over Louisiana stepped up to help those in need.

“But we also saw great gains during the legislative session on tax reform in Louisiana. We kept all of this in mind while selecting the 2021 Free Enterprise award recipients. Many are being heralded for stepping up and making a difference in the lives of Louisianans, while others are being awarded for helping create a healthier climate for business in our state.”