Karen Yarbrough - State Representative

State Representative

Yarbrough was first elected in 2000, defeating the appointed incumbent Wanda Sharp. Her term began in January, 2001.

Yarbrough is committed to helping families. She pushed for All Kids which ensure that all children in Illinois get affordable health care. The All Kids program will provide working families that make too much for KidCare, but not enough to afford private insurance, with affordable health insurance.

In addition, Yarbrough sponsored a bill to support challenged children. The bill provides funding to train teachers and school administrators to recognize and be sensitive to the special needs of students who are pregnant or living in abusive environments. As a member of the Illinois House of Representatives, Yarbrough serves on seven committees: Housing and Urban Development (Chairwoman), House Insurance Committee (Vice-Chairwoman), Environmental Health Committee, Appropriations: Public Safety, Computer Technology, Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, and the Governor’s Safety and Re-Entry Commission.