'By implementing these changes, we can deter repeated patterns of abuse and remove the source of these issues as they occur.'

This legislation offers two lessons: One, in macro: When operating inside the bounds of legality runs afoul of basic fairness, it might be time to change the rules. And two, in micro: If you’ve got a problem, pick up the phone and call someone.

Almost 300 new laws take effect in Illinois Jan. 1, and as has become custom around here I like to use the last few columns of December to review legislation that might not have gotten proper attention earlier in the year.

We’re less than nine months from when candidates can begin circulating petitions for the 2026 election, so we’re rapidly approaching the time when major figures will need to decide whether to run or not.

Districts have to follow the laws, which means they have to cough up the difference. ISBE estimates lawmakers would need to spend $142.2 million more in the next fiscal year just to fall short by the same percentage as this cycle.

Unlike the DoorDash settlement, which included information about how many drivers stood to divide the settlement pool, the Grubhub deal is short on details.

Expect a history lesson, bring a calculator and a working knowledge of actuarial science.

Trouble is, the governor committed to the House Speaker and Senate President not to spend that money until all three could agree what it would be spent on.

In addition to the new designs, we’ll be able to choose to keep the current design or adopt the 1918 centennial or 1968 sesquicentennial flags.