HARDI honored two federal lawmakers for their commitment to small companies during the group’s lobbying event.

Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Rep. Pat Tiberi (R-Ohio) were given Small Business Champion Awards from the Heating, Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Distributors International during its May 19-20 congressional “fly-in” event in Washington, D.C.

HARDI CEO Talbot Gee said Scott understands the needs of members of groups like HARDI.

“Having been a successful small business owner himself, Sen. Scott is keenly aware of small business’ important role in job creation and strengthening our economy,” Gee said. “Scott’s vision for economic freedom and his optimism for achieving the American Dream complement HARDI’s goals in Washington.”

Jon Melchi, HARDI’s vice president of government affairs and business development, had similar comments about Tiberi.  

“Congressman Tiberi has been a key player in the fight for a fairer tax code,” Melchi said. “Thanks to his efforts in Washington, our members — and all small businesses — can continue to succeed, to grow and to provide jobs for their communities.”

Tiberi thanked the group for its support.

 “HARDI is an effective voice for their members as Congress examines ways of making the tax code simpler and more transparent,” he said. “Bringing stability and certainty to the tax code will help small employers, like many HARDI members, better plan and grow their businesses. I am honored to be named a Small Business Champion by its members, and look forward to continue working with them to ensure small businesses have opportunities to thrive.”