State Sen. Scott Brown has received the official endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and the MBTA Police Patrolman's Association.

Brown has been endorsed by the business federation in all of his previous elections, and four years ago was given the honor of being named "Guardian of Small Business" for his work in creating jobs and maintaining a healthy environment for businesses to start and grow in Massachusetts. "I am thrilled by the overwhelming support I've received from employers throughout my district," said Brown.

"It is a great honor to have the support of an exceptional organization like the NFIB. Small businesses are vital to the strength of our economy and I will continue to work to improve the climate for job growth."

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Police Patrolman's Association said it endorsed him for his unwavering support of public transportation safety and the measures necessary to ensure the safety of its riders.

"I'm honored to have the support of such a well respected law enforcement organization. I will do my best to provide them with every tool that is necessary to continue addressing the challenges that we face with transportation safety," said Brown. Brown, R-Wrentham, is running for re-election against Democrat Sara Orozco in a district that includes parts of Attleboro and all of North Attleboro, Plainville, Wrentham, and Norfolk.

Gasoline tax agreement

Jon Rockwood, a Republican running against state Sen. James Timilty, recently called on Timilty to oppose any increase in the gasoline tax and Timilty quickly agreed.

"I'm not going to further burden the already overburdened commuter," Timilty, D-Walpole, said.

Rockwood, also of Walpole, said recent reports out of Boston state that legislative leaders are considering a gas tax hike because of the state's fiscal woes.

"A gas tax increase at this time would be disastrous," he said. "The effects of this increase will be felt by virtually every single person in the state. Truck drivers, school bus companies, people filling up their lawnmower to cut the grass or families going to the store to buy milk and groceries - everyone will be paying more."

Rockwood is running against Timilty in a district that includes part of Attleboro and all of Seekonk, Rehoboth, Norton, Mansfield and Foxboro.

JIM HAND covers politics for The Sun Chronicle. He can be reached at 508-236-0399 or at jhand@thesunchronicle.com.