The Georgia Gerontology Society recently presented its annual David L. Levine Legislative Award to District 17 State Sen. Brian Strickland, R-McDonough.

According to a news release, the award, established in 1993, is given to the legislator who has sponsored or co-sponsored legislation that would improve the quality of life for older adults, has consistently supported aging issues and has been willing to listen to the concerns of Georgia’s elderly.

Its namesake is Dr. David L. Levine, who, the release stated, devoted his adult life advocating for those who could not advocate for themselves.

Georgia Council on Aging Executive Director Kathy Floyd nominated Strickland, the release stated.

She cited his role in sponsoring Senate Bill 406, which requires a fingerprinting background check for all long-term care workers, signed by Gov. Nathan Deal on May 7 and effective Oct. 1.