Loughran Cappel strengthens advocacy for young children with disabilities

SPRINGFIELD – After acknowledging a gap in early childhood disability advocacy, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel moved legislation through the Senate that ensures stronger representation for young children with disabilities.

“Early intervention can be critical for children with disabilities,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Our preschoolers with disabilities deserve an expert on their side of the table who will be a dedicated voice for them.”

Senate Bill 1555 adds the secretary of the Illinois Department of Early Childhood as a member of the Advisory Council on the Education of Children with Disabilities. The role of the Advisory Council on the Education of Children with Disabilities, which is housed under the Illinois State Board of Education, is to be a protective body, advising the governor, legislature and ISBE on current issues relating to the education of children with disabilities.

“This measure is a big step forward in ensuring the needs of young children with disabilities are recognized and properly represented,” said Loughran Cappel.

Senate Bill 1555 passed the Senate Thursday.

Loughran Cappel law reduces delays in childcare employment process

SPRINGFIELD – A new law championed by State Senator Loughran Cappel will address background check delays at childcare facilities across Illinois.

“Providing safe, reliable environments for kids gives working parents peace of mind,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Background checks are taking far too long, leading to qualified early educators leaving the field.”

House Bill 4412 allows a childcare facility, non-licensed service provider, day care center, or home-based day cares to use a third-party vendor licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for the required fingerprinting that is part of the application process for facility licensure and as a condition of employment.

“Putting this procedure in place will make the process easier without eliminating any requirements,” said Loughran Cappel. “This law will reduce delays in the licensing process, giving kids across the state more opportunities to thrive at an early age.”

House Bill 4412 was signed into law Friday and takes effect immediately.

Loughran Cappel: Budget address is transparent, but we have more work to do

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood) released the following statement regarding the governor’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget address on Wednesday:

“There are many priority investments in the budget proposal such as continued funding for education, health and human services and local governments. This budget is a starting point, and as negotiations continue, I look forward to finding ways we can responsibly invest in Illinois families.

“Over the last few years, we have seen strides in our education system and it’s great to see the continued investments in our state’s young minds. The $350 million increase for Evidence Based Funding in K-12 schools ensures our students have access to quality education and sets them up for future success. Both teachers and students make up a large portion of our communities, and it’s essential we see ongoing improvements and investments that benefit them.

“As we go through the remainder of the budget process, it’s essential we take a responsible approach to spending. I’m hopeful we can come together and pass a budget that supports working families, strengthens communities and keeps Illinois moving forward.”

Loughran Cappel to host Coffee with Cappel

ROMEOVILLE – Local residents are invited to join State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel to chat over a cup of coffee on Feb. 11, where she will have open dialogue about how she can best serve the area.

“I always look forward to hosting events like this because meeting with constituents and hearing their concerns is essential,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “All residents of the district are encouraged to come out and chat in a casual setting.”

The free event will be held Tuesday, Feb. 11 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Tasty Waffle, located at 642 S. Weber Road in Romeoville.

Loughran Cappel regularly hosts coffee and chat events, which serve as open forums for community members to share their concerns and talk with the senator about state issues. 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 at www.SenatorLoughranCappel.com.