WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Legal Reform (ILR) is pleased to welcome Richard Winget as vice president of state affairs. In this role, Winget will direct legislative advocacy, grassroots efforts and communications strategy to advance legal reforms at the state level.
 
“During his nearly three decades of experience in the pharmaceutical field – including 15 years as a senior federal and state government affairs executive – Rich has proven his skill at fighting for principles that expand America’s free enterprise system,” said ILR President Lisa Rickard. “Rich’s talents and experience are a welcome addition to the ILR team as we work to improve the lawsuit climate in states in need of legal reform.”
 
Prior to joining ILR, Winget was vice president of government affairs and advocacy at Wyeth Pharmaceuticals in Collegeville, Pa. In that position, he led the company’s federal and state government lobbying efforts by focusing on key legislative priorities to further business imperatives.  In 2003, Winget received the American Legislative Exchange Council’s (ALEC) private sector member of the year award – an honor earned by those who have demonstrated a record of achievement in advancing the principles of free markets, limited government, federalism, and individual liberty through their contributions as an ALEC member. 
 
From 1984-2000, Winget worked for the Bayer Corporation in a number of roles, including leading the state government team and lobbying several states in the upper Midwest where he successfully defeated legislative proposals to expand lawsuits.  

ILR seeks to promote civil justice reform through legislative, political, judicial, and educational activities at the national, state, and local levels.

The U.S. Chamber is the world’s largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

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