FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: WEST VIRGINIA SENATOR RECEIVES NATIONAL AWARD FOR HIS DEDICATION TO FAMILIES AND STRONG COMMUNITIES
AWARD HONORS LEADERSHIP ON BILLS EMPOWERING VOLUNTEERS AND FOCUSING GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS ON PROSPERITY
West Virginia Sen. Edward Gaunch was honored with the 2016 Legislator of the Year Award from the Foundation for Government Accountability Monday for his leadership in the state to eliminate welfare policies that promote dependency, protect volunteers who offer free care to low-income patients, and empower communities to help families in need.
Gaunch sponsored and supported legislation to reform the state’s welfare programs to encourage independence and discourage abuse, protect volunteers who provide free care to low-income patients, and to recognize community organizations that help families and children experiencing a short-term crisis.
“West Virginia is fortunate to have one of the country’s best leaders who is fighting to make their state better by strengthening communities, preserving our safety nets for those who truly need them, and protecting those who want to give back to their neighbors,” said Tarren Bragdon, FGA CEO.
“Sen. Gaunch has stepped forward with bold ideas and he is one of the keys to keeping West Virginia’s future bright, for its working poor and its vulnerable citizens.”
Gaunch is just one of a small handful of state leaders being recognized from around the country with the annual award for their work in 2016.
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