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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.”

JOLIET — Residents in the 49^th District are invited to enjoy a cup of coffee and share their concerns regarding state issues at State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel’s Coffee with Cappel event on Monday.

“Creating a space to foster meaningful conversation with residents in the community is essential,” said Loughran Cappel (Shorewood-D). “Many of these conversations create avenues to possible solutions which can evolve into legislative initiatives.”

The free event will be held Monday, July 13 from 10-11 a.m. at Sumercé Colombian Coffee Roasters, located at 1701 N. Larkin Ave. in Joliet.  

Loughran Cappel frequently hosts events that serve as opportunities for community members to voice their concerns on issues most pressing to them. Coffee will be provided for attendees.

Residents with questions or concerns can contact Loughran Cappel’s Crest Hill office at 815-267-6119 or visit her website here.

PLAINFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel recently secured more than $256,000 for community and school libraries, expanding funding for books, advanced technology, security upgrades and new programming.

“I’m proud to have fought for this grant funding for library and school districts in our community,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Libraries are pillars in the community that serve as spaces for residents to find local resources and programs. I am excited to see what improvements will be made.”

Over $27 million was awarded to over 640 public libraries and 2,500 school libraries across the state through the Illinois Secretary of State’s Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants, Security and Construction Grants and School Library Grants. The funding supports improvements made in security measures, investment in books and technology and building upgrades. Awarded annually, school library grants support student learning and literacy from kindergarten through 12^th grade.

In Loughran Cappel’s district, five public libraries and school districts received funding, including:

• Plainfield Public Library District – $194,797
• Shorewood-Troy Public Library District – $37,026
• Troy Consolidated School District 30C – $3,246
• Plainfield Consolidated School District 202 – $20,632
• Richland School District 88A – $850

“As a former educator, I will always support our libraries and fight to make sure they receive the resources they need,” said Loughran Cappel. “Now more than ever, it is essential that we support institutions such as libraries.”

A full list of public and school libraries receiving grant funding can be found here.

SPRINGFIELD – Championed by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel, a new law will expand cyberbullying protections to include artificial intelligence and deepfake imagery created with AI in schools across the state.

“We are tackling cyberbullying and AI in schools so our state’s protections for children keep pace with this evolving technology,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Access to generative AI software is more widespread than ever before and protecting our students is the top priority. We must ensure students know the repercussions of using AI inappropriately and support those who are victims of cyberbullying.”

Signed into law in 2025, Loughran Cappel’s House Bill 3851 responds to increased incidents of bullying among children and teens using AI and digitally altered images. The law expands the definitions of bullying and cyberbullying to include the posting and distribution of unauthorized digital replicas, specifically if the action creates an effect that falls under the school’s bullying code. Additionally, using a classmate’s image in any form to depict them offensively without their consent is considered cyberbullying under the law. Consensual use of AI in the classroom does not constitute bullying under House Bill 3851.

“AI, although a tool, can be used in a damaging manner,” said Loughran Cappel. “This law will create peace of mind for both students and their families that Illinois’ schools have protections in place against all types of bullying – whether in-person, online or via AI.”

House Bill 3851 takes effect July 1.