The Associated General Contractors of Kentucky, the state's largest commercial construction association, awarded Sen. Vernie McGaha with their 2010 Legislative Award of Merit late last week.

McGaha has served with distinction in representing the interests of the citizens of Adair, Casey, Pulaski and Russell counties, according to the association.

"Senator McGaha has distinguished himself throughout his public service career and he truly embodies everything that the Legislative Award of merit is intended to represent," said AGC of Kentucky Executive Vice President Richard C. Vincent.

"On behalf of the entire membership of AGC of Kentucky we are pleased to present Senator Vernie McGaha with the 2010 AGC of Kentucky Legislative Award of Merit."

McGaha was presented the award on Friday at Branscum Construction in Russell Springs by John Brazel with the AGC.

Also present were Branscum Construction President Steve Branscum, a member of the national contractor's association and Josh Branscum, also a member of the state AGC who oversees business development at the Russell Springs construction company.

 As a policy maker, his leadership and public service has been a tremendous asset to the Commonwealth in its entirety and he has always supported the construction industry, according to a press release from the construction association.

During the most recent session of the Kentucky General Assembly, Sen. McGaha was the principal sponsor of two important bills which positively affect the construction industry - Senate Bill 175 and Senate Bill 176, relating to government contracts and reverse auctions, respectively.

McGaha's stewardship of the public trust and his willingness to work with the business community on behalf of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky is greatly appreciated, according to the press release.