SPRINGFIELD – To promote inclusion and advocate for the well-being of individuals with autism, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is leading a measure that would declare April 2 as Autism Awareness Day.

“Every person with autism deserves to be seen, heard and valued,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “By marking April 2 as Autism Awareness Day, we are recognizing the progress the autism community has achieved, while acknowledging the changes that still need to be made.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is spearheading a measure that would allow paraprofessionals who have a short-term approval license to become fully licensed once their short-term license expires.

“Paraprofessionals are an important part of our education system,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “They provide crucial support for instructional, behavioral and personal care for students under the guidance of teachers and administrators.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is heading a measure that would prevent software companies from stopping local governments’ use of certain payment processing systems.

“This measure gives power back to local governments,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Software companies should not be dictating how governments work. That should be up to the governments to decide what is best for themselves.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood) released the following statement regarding the governor’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget address on Wednesday:

“The governor’s budget proposal includes many important investments for our community, ensuring K-12 education remains funded and health and human services stays a priority.

“In the wake of the federal funding loss, we also need to be responsible with our spending. I am hopeful that we can pass a budget that moves Illinois forward, supports working families and keeps essential programs funded.”