Support for small businesses and a statewide mandatory vehicle insurance verification system recently helped an Alabaster state representative earn top honors from a statewide insurance association.

The Alabama Independent Insurance Association named Rep. Cam Ward, R-Alabaster, its Legislator of the Year during a Feb. 18 event in Montgomery.

The association, which represents insurance agencies across the state, chose Ward because of his “support of issues important to the insurance industry and businesses in Alabama,” according to an association press release.

“Cam has been a good legislator for Shelby County, and a great friend for a long time,” Bentley said during the award presentation. “He is a real friend of small business in Alabama, and that is important today more than ever in our economy.”

The association also praised Ward’s support for a mandatory statewide insurance verification system.

Through the system, state officials would electronically verify drivers’ insurance coverage before allowing the drivers to register.

The House of Representatives may vote on the matter during the current session, according to the press release.

“Your association has continually stood for what small business is all about — providing jobs, offering services and stimulating the economies of every town in Alabama,” Ward told the association. “Independent agents are often pillars of the community, and that is why I am honored to receive this award.”