SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Loughran Cappel sees a strong framework that would make key investments for Illinois’ education systems outlined in the governor’s proposed budget.

The proposed budget includes $250 million to prepare children to be lifelong learners and strengthen students’ futures by providing greater opportunities from birth to college.

“As a former special education teacher, I know the importance of getting kids in the classroom at an early age,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I’ve heard a number of stories from parents that encounter barriers to sending their kids to early childhood programs. It’s time for us to prioritize a child’s education from a young age so they can have every opportunity to learn more as they get older.”

The proposal also continues the commitment of a $350 million increase to the Evidence-Based Funding model for K-12 education to help Illinois students succeed in the classroom.

Increased funding to make college more affordable for working families through the MAP grant program was proposed – a move Loughran Cappel believes is vital for students who want to pursue higher education.

Additionally, the proposal includes building the teacher pipeline by providing funding for teacher recruitment and retention.

“I have been a devoted advocate for all levels of education and teachers even before I was state senator,” Loughran Cappel said. “We have to provide the much needed resources for students so they can go to school without leaving a financial burden on themselves or their families and ensure that teachers can efficiently and successfully do their jobs. This proposal provides a framework that we can work through to prioritize education for all.”

Workforce development and Career and Technical Education investments are also included in the budget proposal, setting up Illinois’ workforce for the jobs of tomorrow.

Loughran Cappel serves as chair of the Senate Appropriations-Education Committee for the 103rd General Assembly. The committee will work through the budget process to allocate funding for early education, K-12 education and higher education across the state.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel has been appointed to chair the Senate Appropriations-Education Committee to ensure Illinois schools are adequately funded.

“As a special education teacher, I believe my work in the classroom has given me the perspective to understand what teachers need to do their job and succeed,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I’ve been a devoted advocate for teachers for many years. I want to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used wisely when funding our schools for the benefit of our students and education professionals.”

Loughran Cappel entered the professional world as a special education teacher. In 2015, Loughran Cappel became a union representative for her school’s teacher’s union — AFT-IFT Local 604 – to support other educators and help them have meaningful careers. In 2017 she served on the Joliet High School Board, where she worked to improve school safety and technical problems within the district.

Loughran Cappel previously served as a member of the Senate Education Committee and will continue serving on that committee.

“My job as an elected official is to be straightforward and honest with constituents and residents across the state,” said Loughran Cappel. “With this new position, I will work to increase government transparency and accountability with the state’s fiscal responsibility to fund our schools. I look forward to working for our educators and believe that my career has given me the tools to be successful in this new role.”

To see a full list of Loughran Cappel’s committee assignments, click here.

BOLINGBROOK – Whether it’s questions about state resources or feedback on legislative priorities, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel loves sitting down with local residents to reflect on how she can best serve the 49th District. During a Coffee and Conversation event on Jan. 31, Loughran Cappel invites the community to join her at the Fountaindale Public Library to chat.

“As a voice in Springfield, I take pride in meeting with people face-to-face and take in their concerns,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “The best way to connect with residents is through making myself accessible and I look forward to joining residents for a cup of coffee and conversations.”

The event will be held Tuesday, Jan. 31 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Fountaindale Public Library located at 300 W. Briarcliff Road in Bolingbrook.

Each monthly Coffee and Conversation serves as an open forum for community members to engage in informal conversations with the senator and each other about issues facing the region and the state.

The event is free and open to area residents. Those with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact Loughran Cappel’s Plainfield office at 815-267-6119 or visit her website at www.SenatorLoughranCappel.com. 

CREST HILL – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is reminding seniors and people with disabilities that their annual license plate renewal fee will be reduced by more than half under a law she championed that took effect Jan. 1.

“Lowering license plate fees for our seniors and people with disabilities allows them to use their money on other essential things,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I’m proud of the work we have done and I encourage those who qualify to take advantage of this new reduction.”

Loughran Cappel’s law reduces the vehicle registration fee for seniors, people with disabilities and their spouses from $24 to $10.

The Department on Aging’s Benefit Access Program determines eligibility for a license plate discount from the Secretary of State’s office and free transit on fixed route systems in Illinois. Residents must be at least 65 years old or 16 years old and disabled, as well as meet income requirements to qualify.

“I will continue being a voice for some of our most vulnerable populations,” Loughran Cappel said.

Public Act 102-0807 took effect Jan. 1.