The American Conservative Union (ACU), the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization, this week announced that State Representative Barrett Rich (R–Somerville) has been awarded the coveted ACU ‘Defender of Liberty’ award. The award, which is presented to those members of the Tennessee General Assembly who scored 100 percent on the ACU Tennessee 2013 State Legislative Rating, is the organization’s highest and most revered honor available to lawmakers. “I am truly humbled to be presented this award by the American Conservative Union,” said Representative Rich. “I am committed to working with my colleagues in the Tennessee General Assembly to lower taxes, cut government waste, and help create an environment in our state where businesses can grow and thrive. I am thankful for organizations like the ACU who recognize the work of our conservative Republican majority and look forward to advancing our shared Tennessee values even further in the coming weeks.” For more information on the American Conservative Union or to download the full Tennessee 2013 State Legislative Ratings Guide, please click here or visit their website at conservative.org. Barrett Rich serves as Chairman of the House Health Subcommittee. He is also a member of the House Criminal Justice Committee and House Ethics Committee. He represents District 94, which encompasses all of Fayette, McNairy, and a portion of Hardeman Counties. He can be reached by email at Rep.Barrett.Rich@capitol.tn.gov or by calling 1-800-449-8366, ext. 16890.