PLAINFIELD – To gather input from the generations of the future, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel championed a Youth Advisory Board, which is accepting applications through Nov. 1.

“Students in high school and college are the leaders of our future,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “This generation is bright and innovative and their voices matter. Together, we can make Illinois a better place for all.”

Loughran Cappel’s Youth Advisory Board will meet quarterly to discuss issues that are important to young people and how she can use her position as a Senator to better serve younger generations. The board will be made up of students from local high schools and colleges.

Students interested in getting involved in state government and having their voice heard should apply for a position no later than Nov. 1. Applicants will be selected Nov. 15 and the first meeting will be Dec. 7. This class of members of the Youth Advisory Board will hold their positions until May 2023.

“The Youth Advisory Board is a great opportunity to have your voice heard and impact legislation,” said Loughran Cappel. “Some of the best pieces of legislation come from conversations I’ve had in the community.”

To apply, students can visit https://bit.ly/3COUmcG. People can call Loughran Cappel’s office at 815-267-6119 with questions.

SHOREWOOD – During Manufacturing Month, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel highlights the importance of manufacturers in Illinois.

“Manufacturing drive ours region’s economy,” said Loughran Cappel. “Careers in manufacturing are the jobs of tomorrow. The 49^th District is lucky to be home to many up and coming businesses that ensure our state meets the demands of our global economy.”

The manufacturing industry supports $580 billion in annual economic impact and is the largest growing sector in Illinois. Manufacturers across the state employ more than 662,000 men and women on factory floors, earning an average wage of more than $79,400 and 92% of employees receive employer sponsored health care. 

During the last legislative session, Loughran Cappel supported a number of measures to support and grow manufacturing in Illinois such as the Manufacturing Illinois Chips for Real Opportunity (MICRO) Act that provides a range of tax credits for semiconductor, microchip and component part manufacturers to support new employee training while also encourage companies to develop operations in underserved communities and energy transition areas.

“The MICRO Act strengthens the in-state supply of semiconductors, microchips and their component parts and increase availability for manufacturing production nationwide,” said Loughran Cappel. “This is another way to put Illinois on the map as a top supplier.”

To learn more about careers in manufacturing residents can visit http://rcc6test.richland.edu/workforce.

SHOREWOOD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is reminding residents that today, Oct. 17, is the last day for them to apply for income and property tax rebates as part of the Illinois Family Relief Plan.

“As the back-to-school season ends and the holiday season approaches, many families are strapped for cash,” said Loughran Cappel. “These rebates can make all the difference for working families, but we can’t provide them with their well-deserved rebate without having their information on file.”

Supported by Loughran Cappel, the Illinois Senate championed Senate Bill 157, which provides millions of Illinois taxpayers with financial relief – including direct tax rebates. People who filed taxes will automatically receive their rebate – otherwise they have until today, Oct. 17, to do so.

Many Illinois taxpayers began receiving checks last month, but just because someone hasn’t received their refund, doesn’t mean they haven’t filed the proper forms. The comptroller’s office said it could take up to eight weeks to receive a rebate. People can check their status by clicking here and select “Where’s My Rebate?” A person will need to have your IL-PIN number to check the status. To find an IL-PIN number, click here and select “IL-PIN Inquiry.”

Under the Loughran Cappel-backed Illinois Family Relief Plan, people who filed 2021 Illinois taxes are eligible to receive up to $700. Individual filers who make less than $200,000 will receive a $50 income tax rebate, and couples who make less than $400,000 will receive $100. Filers are also eligible for $100 per dependent, with a maximum of three.

Additionally, people who paid property taxes in 2021 on their primary residence in 2020 – and make less than $250,000 individually or $500,000 jointly – are eligible for up to $300. The rebate will be equal to the property tax a resident was qualified to claim on their 2021 taxes.

“We are working to put your money back in your pocket,” Loughran Cappel said. “Make sure to check your status and file any missing forms to ensure you get the dollars you are owed.”

For additional information, visit tax.illinois.gov/rebates or call 1-800 732-8866 or 217-782-3336.

ROMEOVILLE – The brave men and women who served our nation and safeguarded our freedom deserve gratitude and to know that once they come home, they will be supported. That’s why State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel, State Representative Natalie Manley, and Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant will partner with local groups to host a Veterans Rights Seminar Nov. 19.

“People who put their lives on hold in service of something greater than themselves deserve to know their rights,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “This event serves as a small token of appreciation for our local heroes, helps them connect with others who have served, and gives them an opportunity to learn more about their rights as veterans.”

The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 19 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Grand Haven Clubhouse, located at 1520 Grand Haven Rd. in Romeoville. Light refreshments will be provided.

"Every day, we benefit from the sacrifices and hard work of our veterans, and I simply cannot thank them enough for what they do. It is our civic duty as elected officials to support these local heroes by ensuring they have access to the resources they need to live happy, healthy lives," said state Rep. Natalie Manley (D-Joliet). "I encourage all who have served to join us for our event to learn more about state resources and programs we have created specifically to aid veterans.”

Loughran Cappel, Bertino-Tarrant, Manley and a representative from the Military and Veterans Rights Bureau are set to address those in attendance.

“I invite all local veterans to attend, connect with others, and learn about available programs and services. I’m glad to be hosting this seminar with Sen. Cappel,” said Bertino-Tarrant.

To accommodate all guests, registration is required for this event. To register, veterans can visit https://bit.ly/3f5ikrA or call Loughran Cappel’s office at (815) 267-6119.