Election officials in Illinois are encouraged vote by mail could increase the number of voters and provide a safer election during the coronavirus pandemic.

Springfield residents not in compliance with the state's stay at home order could soon be slapped with a fine of up to $500.

State Rep. Sue Scherer had only two pages left in a new legal pad after working about a week. Notepads usually last longer for the Decatur Democrat.

*There was some tangible legislative fallout from the coronavirus outbreak last week.

Social distancing and stay-at-home orders, instituted to combat the novel coronavirus pandemic, are in direct conflict with Illinois' ballot eligibility requirements, the Libertarian and Green parties of Illinois allege in a lawsuit filed Thursday.