The new Illinois ethics law brings a little change to the nation’s second-most corrupt state, but what is needed are the stronger reforms lawmakers promised after ousting scandal-plagued former House Speaker Mike Madigan.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker hinted Illinoisans could see indoor mask mandates lifted if state coronavirus transmissions continue to fall. He wouldn’t give a specific target.

A state lawmaker has asked Gov. J.B. Pritzker for the metrics needed to drop statewide mask mandates. He also called for public hearings on masking harms to student development, others in Illinois.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker promised to pass fair maps. On Aug. 31, politicians enacted maps that go back on that promise.

Illinois made an important first step in its break with the corrupt practices that defined the legislative process under former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan. New ethics rules about lobbying, financial disclosures and the legislative watchdog were passed in the final hours of the session, but the reforms may die after the House rejected a technical change to the legislation by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced all Illinoisans age 2 and up are required to wear masks inside public spaces effective Aug. 30. All school and health care workers must be vaccinated against COVID-19 by Sept. 5, as must college students.