Rep. Jeff Espich, R-Uniondale, had been named 2012 Legislator of the Year by the Indiana Bankers Association.

The award was presented by IBA President and Chief Executive Officer S. Joe DeHaven at the Association's Annual Convention on Sept. 11 in French Lick, Ind.

Espich was recognized for his 40 years of service in the Indiana House of Representatives, where he currently serves as chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and of the State Budget Committee.

For the past two decades, Rep. Espich has carefully monitored state tax dollars and authored balanced budgets, which have helped distinguish Indiana as one of the most fiscally sound states in the nation, the press release said.

Espich was elected to the House in 1972 and decided to retire following the November elections.

A self-employed small businessman and property owner/manager, Espich is a graduate of Indiana University and a veteran of the U.S. Army.

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