San Jose, CA - The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) today presented Assemblyman Jim Cunneen with its first "Silicon Valley Legislator of the Year" award at the Hyatt Sainte Claire in San Jose, California.

"Beginning with his protection of emerging companies from frivolous lawsuits by opposing Prop 211 in 1996, Jim has supported California's high tech industry with a tireless commitment that only a few legislators possess," said CMTA President, Jack M. Stewart.

"By supporting a moratorium on Internet taxation, an increase in the Research & Development tax credit and Permanent Normal Trade Relations for China, Assemblyman Cunneen has shown us that he understands the needs of the Silicon Valley and its far reaching effects on California's economy," added Intel Director of Corporate Government Affairs, Richard C. Hall.

Mindful that California's economy has become dependant upon the technology industry, CMTA plans to give the "Silicon Valley Legislator of the Year" award
annually to the legislator who works hardest to resolve issues facing the technology sector in California.

"Before running for office, Jim worked for a Silicon Valley manufacturing company which made him acutely aware of the implications that Sacramento policies have on the industry," said Stewart, "In his successful negotiations with the Governor to get a 12 percent R&D credit, Jim was unwavering when others thought it could not be done."

Assemblyman Cunneen has also been the American Electronics Association's Legislator of the Year for five years and recently received the group's "Lifetime Achievement Award."