Watch CBS News

State Rep. Yarbrough Wins Accolades For Efforts

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WBBM) -- For the woman behind the repeal of capital punishment in Illinois, it was a big, historic effort – but not her first.

As WBBM Newsradio 780's Dave Dahl reports, state Rep. Karen Yarbrough (D-Maywood) sponsored the ban on capital punishment four years after sponsoring Smoke Free Illinois, which banned smoking in virtually all indoor public places in the state.

LISTEN: Newsradio 780's Dave Dahl reports

Podcast

"I didn't come to Springfield to enjoy shrimp cocktails," she said. "I came to Springfield to do a job. I came to Springfield to represent the people of my district, and then represent the people of the state of Illinois."

Among those giving Yarbrough accolades is a state representative from the other side of the aisle – JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch.)

"Karen is a unique individual. She's here for the right reasons. She's here for good public policy, and she's cares about what she's doing," Osmond said. "I pride myself in recognizing talent on both sides, so she's definitely one that deserves our respect from the Republican side."

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.