SPRINGFIELD – A newly signed law sponsored by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel will waive application fees for short-term substitute teaching licenses.

“Over the past two years, every school across the state has had days when they have been unable to find substitute teachers,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “We have a responsibility to do all we can to ensure our students have access to teachers, and this new law will get teachers in the classroom.”

According to the Illinois State Board of Education, there are more than 4,000 unfilled positions in schools. In an attempt to address the void, Loughran Cappel’s plan will waive the application fee for short-term substitute teaching licensees when the governor declares a disaster due to a public health emergency.

SPRINGFIELD – Teachers will now be able to take excused mental health absences thanks to a new law that was led by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel.

“As society continues to increase the importance of addressing mental health as part of health care, we must ensure that our teachers have the ability to address issues they are dealing with,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “It’s vital that we give them the time they need to unplug and focus on their mental well-being.”

Under the new law, previously Senate Bill 3914, the school board of each school district will be required to include mental health as part of their current negotiated sick days for full-time employees of the district.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood) supported a new law that curbs organized retail theft and holds ringleaders accountable.

“Organized retail theft has become much more common across the country and it’s vital that we fight back against the growing issue,” Loughran Cappel said. “This new law sends a message to criminals that these thefts will not be tolerated.”

In partnership with Illinois Retail Merchants Association and the office of the attorney general, the law defines Organized Retail Crime as a specific criminal charge and provides prosecutors with additional resources to hold perpetrators accountable. The law codifies ORC as the theft of retail merchandise with intent to sell.

CREST HILL – To give people the opportunity to ask questions, interact with their neighbors and get updates about what’s going on in the community, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is inviting residents to attend her monthly Coffee and Conversation event.

“Coffee & Conversation will give us a chance to meet and chat about how we can work together to make our community even stronger,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I encourage folks to join me to talk about the issues facing the state over a cup of coffee.”

The event will be held Thursday, May 26 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Crest Hill White Oak Library located at 20670 City center Blvd. in Crest Hill.