SPRINGFIELD – A measure to ensure Illinois customers know the discount they're getting when supermarkets put products on sale was signed into law thanks to efforts by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). 

“When shoppers check out at the supermarket, they don’t always see the sale price of an item on the screen during a transaction,” Loughran Cappel said. “There shouldn’t be confusion if the computer system gave you a discount or having to hope the discount will be taken off at the end.”

While retailers provide notice of discounts through various methods such as receipts, in-store promotions, advertisements, and price tags, there is nothing written in law concerning how prices and discounts are displayed during checkout.

JOLIET – Over 50 businesses across Will and Kendall Counties were awarded a combined $1.8 million in funding from the Back to Business program thanks to advocacy and support from State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel.

“Small businesses bring so much life to our community and programs like Back to Business have been vital in helping them get back on their feet,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I’m pleased to see so many businesses take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.”

A total of $1.8 million was awarded to 56 businesses in the 49th District. The B2B grants are awarded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity using funds allocated to them by the American Rescue Plan through last year’s state budget.

SHOREWOOD – On Wednesday, May 4, Illinois will be celebrating Firefighters’ Day in Illinois thanks to a resolution supported by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood).

“On Firefighters’ Day, we celebrate all of the firefighters that put their lives in danger to save others,” Loughran Cappel said. “Our communities have been made stronger because of them.”  

Firefighters’ Day honors the fearless men and women who not only run toward burning buildings and risk their own lives to save others but are often the first response when medical attention is required in homes and businesses.

“On this day, we have the opportunity to thank current and past firefighters for their selfless contributions to our communities,” Loughran Cappel said. “Dedicating a day to honor and celebrate them is a great way to show our appreciation for all they do for us.”

The resolution was adopted during the spring legislative session. Loughran Cappel encourages Illinois residents to show their support to their local firefighters on May 4.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood) championed two new laws to help address the ongoing statewide teacher shortage.

“Illinois, like everywhere else in the country, is facing challenges with recruiting and retaining teachers,” said Loughran Cappel, who attened the bill signing ceremony at Springfield High School in Springfield. “It was a struggle even before the pandemic hit, but now, finding someone to sub in when a teacher is out sick is even harder for Illinois schools.”

According to a survey by the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools, 90% of Illinois schools are currently experiencing staffing shortages. Loughran Cappel’s law, originally House Bill 4246, will reduce the renewal fees for substitute teachers’ licenses to $50 instead of $500.