Orange County Business Council (OCBC) announced Senator Patricia Bates (R – Laguna Niguel) as one of its 2022 Legislators of the Year. Senator Bates was recognized for her continual efforts to protect good paying jobs and strengthen Orange County’s economy. Among her Orange County peers, Senator Bates earned one of the highest of scores on the 2022 OCBC Legislative Scorecard. Senator Bates issued the following statement:
 
“I am honored to be recognized as the 2022 Legislator of the Year for OCBC – the nation’s premier advocate for small businesses. As a former small business owner myself, I know from experience how difficult it can be to operate a successful business in California. It’s because of this experience that I made it a priority to serve as a leading voice for Orange County businesses during my time in the State Senate. Thank you to the Orange County business community for this great honor.”
 
Jeff Ball, OCBC’s President and CEO, issued the following statement:
 
“It’s my privilege to recognize Senator Bates and Assemblymembers Chen and Daly for their dedicated service to Orange County. OCBC commends their commitment to growing the workforce and advancing economic development in our region. Businesses need champions in Sacramento now more than ever, and these three legislators showed up for business with not only their voice, but their votes.”
 
The California Chamber of Commerce (CalChamber) and the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) also recognized Senator Bates commitment to California businesses. She placed in the top tier with CalChamber and earned high marks from the (NFIB).