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Former Assemblywoman Barbara Alby Dies At 66

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - Former Assemblywoman Barbara Alby, the self-described welfare mom and domestic violence victim who ultimately became a state lawmaker, has died at 66.

"The California Republican Party has lost a dear friend with the passing of Barbara Alby," said California Republican Party Chairman Del Beccaro.

She was considered a force in Republican politics and carried a proven record as an advocate for taxpayers and businesses. Each year that she served in the state Assembly, Alby was named "Tax Fighter of the Year" by the National Taxpayer Limitation Committee.

Alby said that Gov. Ronald Reagan cutting her welfare benefits was a defining moment in her life, and credits him for changing her life.

In 1993, she was elected to the California Legislature, representing the Sacramento area. In office, she would author California's Megan's Law, as well as the landmark legislation that allows police to make arrests for probable cause in domestic violence.

"Barbara's life reminds us that it's not only important to have strong beliefs, but to act upon those beliefs. We should all keep her and her family in our prayers," Beccaro said.

Alby was the Acting Board Member for the State Board of Equalization's Second District.

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