[General] "That need not be the case"

[KSSEEJ]

[FONT=&quot]"Officials have touted the law as a significant step in our city's fight against air pollution, but its value is more symbolic. That need not be the case, though, if enforcement of the law is coupled with close monitoring, a thorough assessment of its impact and a determination to get it right." (Quoted from SCMP, HK)
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What is the meaning of "That need not be the case" Is that mean "The the law will necessarily not be merely symbolic" Could anyone explain it with few examples? Thanks so much!

 

[waflob]

Yes, the law will not be merely symbolic.

 

[SoothingDave]

The law does not have to be only symbolic.