Press Releases

SPRINGFIELD – Recognizing that Illinois has a shortage of clinicians who are authorized to diagnose autism in children, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is leading a measure to ensure children with autism are identified early and connected to proper medical and educational supports.

“Children and families are waiting for as long as two years to receive an autism evaluation because there are not enough medical professionals to diagnose autism,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “This measure improves the process by ensuring children can receive the care they need in a manageable amount of time.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is leading a measure to ensure children who have color vision deficiency, more commonly referred to as “color blindness,” are identified early and receive resources to help their literacy.

“Many children do not receive color vision deficiency testing because it’s not required, meaning they often don’t find out until much later in their lives that they cannot distinguish certain colors,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “This measure makes sure children receive testing so they know if they have color vision deficiency and can be connected with the appropriate resources to help them succeed in their education.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is spearheading a measure to strengthen protections for first responders who are injured or become ill in the line of duty.

“This measure is about helping the people who risk their lives for our safety,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “First responders should not have their pay penalized for becoming injured or ill, which can happen in dangerous situations.”

SHOREWOOD - To encourage summer learning, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is launching a Summer Reading Club for children and young people who live in the 49th State Senate District.

“Reading over the summer helps students stay engaged, build confidence and return to the classroom ready to learn,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “My Summer Book Club encourages children to discover books they enjoy while creating healthy learning habits that can last far beyond summer break.”