Illinois Lawmakers Consider Expelling Derrick Smith

An Illinois House committee plans to meet in Chicago to discuss whether to expel state Rep. Derrick Smith.

The Chicago Democrat was arrested in March in an FBI sting in which he's accused of accepting a $7,000 bribe in exchange for helping a phony daycare center obtain a state grant. He's pleaded not guilty to federal charges.

A House panel concluded this month that there's enough evidence to justify action against him in the legislature. Penalties could include, reprimand, censure or expulsion.

Despite his arrest, Smith easily won his March primary battle and remains on the November ballot. Top Democrats have been calling on him to resign, but he's refused.

The House committee is meeting Wednesday, and a status hearing is scheduled Thursday in Smith's federal case.