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

“Every person with autism brings unique gifts, perspectives and strengths that enrich our communities,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Illinois is standing as a state that chooses acceptance, understanding and belonging.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel joined the Illinois Legislative Neurodiversity Caucus to honor National Cerebral Palsy Day, World Autism Awareness Month, World Autism Day and World Neurodiversity Celebration Month by outlining the group’s goals for improving the lives of people who have disabilities.

“One of my goals since becoming a senator has been to improve the lives of children and students, including those who are neurodiverse or on the autism spectrum,” Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood) said. “The purpose of our Neurodiversity Caucus is to hear what problems families are dealing with and find ways to make them better.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is leading a measure that would allow people with autism to get a special license plate, in turn leading to safer traffic stops and interactions with law enforcement.

“Traffic stops are stressful for everyone, but even more so for people who have autism,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Autism can affect people’s social cues and command responses, causing anxiety for them when encountering police officers.”

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.”