SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood) released the following statement after the Senate passed a measure expanding health care across Illinois:

“The passing of this legislation expands access to health care for all. This is a positive step forward to ensuring every person has the accessibility to the fundamental right of health care.

“After months of working to find the best solution, women’s care and all other health care will be protected in Illinois. I will continue to support expanding access to health care and I’m proud of the work we have done.”

PLAINFIELD – As the temperatures continue to drop, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is encouraging drivers to utilize the winter road conditions map on the Illinois Department of Transportation’s website.

“During the winter months, let’s make sure we are careful and patient when driving in hazardous weather,” said Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Being aware of the weather and road conditions can keep you and your loved ones safe.”

GettingAroundIllinois.com is available on your computer and optimized for smartphones. The site includes the ability to identify and zoom in on a location, travel route or destination on a state map. The map is updated frequently through a cloud-based system to provide a general overview on IDOT-maintained highways.

“This resource gives drivers a heads up to take precautions on the roads,” Cappel said. “Residents should view the map before any trips this winter so everyone can stay safe when traveling.”

The road conditions map averages more than 2.5 million page views during snow-and-ice season, featuring a color scheme of pinks and blues to differentiate from the red, yellow and green of traffic congestion reporting, as well as to increase accessibility for those who have difficulty distinguishing colors.

For more information and to view the map, visit https://www.gettingaroundillinois.com/.

PLAINFIELD – Following the death of her friend and colleague, Scott Bennett, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel released the following statement.

“The passing of Senator Scott Bennett is a devastating loss to the Senate and to the State of Illinois. He was an incredible legislator, and I have a deep respect for his leadership both on and off the Senate floor.

“Scott was a good, upstanding man whom I looked up to. He brought humor into everything he did. I’m going to miss him as a colleague, but most of all, I’m going to miss him as a friend.

“My heart is with his family and all who knew him.”

PLAINFIELD – To spread holiday cheer, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is hosting a holiday card drive for seniors across the community.

“We often lose track of what’s most important this season – and that’s spreading joy,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Everyone enjoys a small yet meaningful act of kindness during the holidays.”

Loughran Cappel is collecting store bought and handmade cards for local seniors this holiday season. People are encouraged to write kind notes and drop them off or mail them to her district office, located at 2009 Illinois Rte. 59, Plainfield, IL 60586. She is collecting cards until Dec. 16 and then will deliver them to local long-term care facilities.

Loughran Cappel encourages teachers and students to participate in the seasonal event.

“As a former teacher, I saw how excited students are to do crafts, and that there is a learning aspect to each activity,” Loughran Cappel said. “The holiday season is about making a difference in people’s lives, even if you don’t know them personally. I hope teachers and residents will take advantage of this opportunity.”

People with questions can reach out to Loughran Cappel’s office at 815-267-6119.