Assemblyman Jim Nielsen (R-Gerber) received the annual Outstanding Legislator Award for 2009 from the California State Sheriffs Association (CSSA).  The award was presented to Mr. Nielsen for his dedication and support for law enforcement throughout the state and for his commitment to public safety.  The California State Sheriffs Association is comprised of the 58 County Sheriffs in California.

In Nielsen's first year in the Assembly, he has continued his strong advocacy for the rights of crime victims and their families. He also led the charge against the early release of tens of thousands of dangerous criminals who had not been rehabilitated.

"California Sheriffs are very pleased to recognize Assembly Member Nielsen as a CSSA Outstanding Legislator," said CSSA President, Tehama County Sheriff Clay Parker. "He has been a long-standing champion of law enforcement and dedicated to public safety as his first priority."

"I am honored and humbled to receive this award from the California State Sheriffs Association," stated Nielsen. "The Sheriffs across California know first hand the public safety challenges facing our state.  They have faced budget cuts and threat of dealing with thousands of criminals being released into their communities.  Day in and day out, they have committed themselves to protecting the citizens of California, and I am honored to stand with them."