JOLIET – Over 50 businesses across Will and Kendall Counties were awarded a combined $1.8 million in funding from the Back to Business program thanks to advocacy and support from State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel.

“Small businesses bring so much life to our community and programs like Back to Business have been vital in helping them get back on their feet,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I’m pleased to see so many businesses take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.”

A total of $1.8 million was awarded to 56 businesses in the 49th District. The B2B grants are awarded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity using funds allocated to them by the American Rescue Plan through last year’s state budget.

SHOREWOOD – On Wednesday, May 4, Illinois will be celebrating Firefighters’ Day in Illinois thanks to a resolution supported by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood).

“On Firefighters’ Day, we celebrate all of the firefighters that put their lives in danger to save others,” Loughran Cappel said. “Our communities have been made stronger because of them.”  

Firefighters’ Day honors the fearless men and women who not only run toward burning buildings and risk their own lives to save others but are often the first response when medical attention is required in homes and businesses.

“On this day, we have the opportunity to thank current and past firefighters for their selfless contributions to our communities,” Loughran Cappel said. “Dedicating a day to honor and celebrate them is a great way to show our appreciation for all they do for us.”

The resolution was adopted during the spring legislative session. Loughran Cappel encourages Illinois residents to show their support to their local firefighters on May 4.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood) championed two new laws to help address the ongoing statewide teacher shortage.

“Illinois, like everywhere else in the country, is facing challenges with recruiting and retaining teachers,” said Loughran Cappel, who attened the bill signing ceremony at Springfield High School in Springfield. “It was a struggle even before the pandemic hit, but now, finding someone to sub in when a teacher is out sick is even harder for Illinois schools.”

According to a survey by the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools, 90% of Illinois schools are currently experiencing staffing shortages. Loughran Cappel’s law, originally House Bill 4246, will reduce the renewal fees for substitute teachers’ licenses to $50 instead of $500.

SHOREWOOD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel’s (D-Shorewood) will be traveling to the Shorewood-Troy Public Library on Friday, April 29 from noon to 1 p.m. to increase accessibility to residents throughout Will and Kendall Counties.

Loughran Cappel hosts traveling office hours every month at different locations and times of day to increase the availability of state assistance and informational resources.

“We remain committed to ensuring our office is easily accessible to residents throughout the area,” Loughran Cappel said. “I urge folks who need assistance accessing state and local resources to stop by and find out about new programs and services available.”

Loughran Cappel encourages residents unable to attend the monthly office hours to reach out to her office at 815-267-6119 or visit her website www.SenatorLoughranCappel.com to take her legislative survey.