State Senator Anthony Cannella, R-Ceres, was once again given a 100 percent score by the National Federation of Independent Businesses/California (NFIB) for his voting record in 2016.

The NFIB's annual scorecard was recently released and ranks state legislators' voting records on bills that support California's small businesses.

"As a small business owner, I recognize that state legislation and regulations have a profound effect on our businesses climate, and California is especially challenging," said Cannella. "I am honored that NFIB has again recognized my voting record and I look forward to improving the business environment for California small businesses in 2017."

Studies and surveys have consistently ranked California as a difficult state to do business, with thousands of businesses reportedly moving their headquarters and jobs to more business-friendly environs like Texas, Arizona and Nevada. High taxes and onerous regulations are particularly hard for small businesses. There are approximately 3.7 million small businesses in California, representing over 99 percent of the state's employers and nearly 50% of California's private-sector jobs.

"Senator Anthony Cannella's 100% NFIB rating is a reflection of his steadfast support for small business in the State Capitol," said Tom Scott, executive director of NFIB/CA State. "As a small business owner, Senator Cannella understands firsthand the significant challenges that exist to own, operate, and expand a business in this state. Senator Cannella's unwavering support for small business is critical to protect our job creators from additional taxes, mandates, and complex regulations in California."