CREST HILL – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"Everyday people rely on SNAP benefits which serve as a vital lifeline to keep food on the table," said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). "It’s time to put politics aside. Families across Illinois will go hungry because of a political gridlock. Urgent action is needed."

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including the 22,375 people in the district Loughran Cappel represents who rely on SNAP benefits.

Loughran Cappel stresses that a long-term solution requires immediate federal intervention.

Loughran Cappel is coordinating with state officials and community organizations to prepare for potential disruptions and to ensure vulnerable populations have access to emergency food assistance.

CREST HILL – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel secured over $34 million to build and repair infrastructure in the 49^th Senate District.

“When we invest in our roads, we increase safety, bring more jobs and boost the local economy throughout our communities,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Our commitment to invest in everyday infrastructure continues to better the lives of residents across the state. Drivers deserve safe, reliable roads and that’s what they will see with these strong investments.”

The largest multi-year program to build and repair infrastructure in state history will invest $50.6 billion over six years, continuing an unprecedented investment in safety, mobility and quality of life made possible by the bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program. The Illinois Department of Transportation’s new multi-year program is both comprehensive and multimodal, with investments in roads and bridges, aviation, transit, freight and passenger rail, waterways, and bicycle and pedestrian accommodations touching every Illinois county.

SHOREWOOD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood) released the following statement:

“In the early hours of Tuesday morning, my family and I experienced a deeply troubling incident when a shot was fired directly at our home. I am grateful to Chief Arnold, law enforcement and investigators for their work detaining a suspect and working diligently to get to the bottom of this.

“My family and I are safe and I’m thankful that no one was hurt. We are fully cooperating with law enforcement as they continue their investigation.

“At times like these, I am reminded of how precious peace and safety are in our communities. Violence is never the answer.”

Continuing her support for education, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is again hosting monthly Teacher Forums for educators and Youth Advisory Board meetings for high school students.

“I know how important it is to hear concerns and feedback from teachers around the district,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “My goal with my monthly Teacher Forums is to create a space where local educators can voice their concerns and help create real solutions for their communities.”

Loughran Cappel’s forums aim to address the issues teachers face in the classroom, ensure they have the tools and resources available to effectively do their job, and set students on a path of success. The initial meeting for the 2025-26 school year is set for 4:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23 at Loughran Cappel’s district office located at 20660 Caton Farm Road, Unit D in Crest Hill.

Loughran Cappel is also kicking off her 2025-26 Youth Advisory Board for high school students in October. The Youth Advisory Board will meet monthly to discuss issues that are important to young people and how she can use her position as a senator to better serve younger generations.