Illinois State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel

Loughran Cappel law to allow full-time licenses for paraprofessionals with short-term approval licenses

: Category: News; Friday, July 24, 2026 12:53 PM

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel led a new law that lets paraprofessionals who have a short-term approval license get a full license after their short-term license expires.

“Illinois’ teacher shortage is impacting children’s ability to learn,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “When we invest in the people already showing up for our students every day, we don’t just fill classrooms – we build careers, strengthen communities and deepen the roots of education from the inside out.”

Loughran Cappel law protects injured and sick first responders’ pay

: Category: News; Friday, July 24, 2026 12:51 PM

CappelFloorPhotoR SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel led a new law boosting financial security for first responders who are injured or become ill while on duty.

“First responders put their lives on the line every day, and we should recognize them for that,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “One way we can do that is by making sure first responders receive the compensation and benefits they’re owed.”

Loughran Cappel, Manley to host back-to-school fair

: Category: News; Wednesday, July 15, 2026 10:02 AM

CREST HILL – Families can get a head start on the back-to-school excitement this year at State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel and State Representative Natalie Manley’s annual back-to-school fair on July 25.

“As a former educator I look forward to the back-to-school fair every year,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “It is always nice to see students get excited for the upcoming school year, showcase community resources and catch up with families in the district.”

Loughran Cappel law to broaden autism diagnostic access for children

: Category: News; Friday, July 10, 2026 03:19 PM

SPRINGFIELD – Realizing that Illinois does not have enough clinicians authorized to diagnose autism, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel led a new law to ensure early identification of autism in children, as well as medical and educational support.

“Due to the current shortage of medical professionals allowed to diagnose autism, children are waiting up to two years for an autism evaluation, which leaves families without support during their children’s critical early years,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “We need to make sure children can receive evaluations in an appropriate time, and that they receive the support they need for a successful educational career and life.”

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I am proud to serve as the State Senator from Illinois’ 49th District. I hope you’ll find this site a useful resource in keeping up to date with what’s happening in our district and in Springfield. Please contact either of my offices with questions or ways I can better serve you. It is my honor to represent you in Springfield.

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signature of State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel