West Virignia economist John Deskins says credit rating reflects steady financial management

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WV News) — West Virginia’s newly improved credit outlook from S&P Global Ratings reflects steady financial management amid long-known challenges, according to West Virginia University economist John Deskins.

S&P revised West Virginia’s credit outlook to positive from stable and affirmed its ‘AA-’ long-term rating on the state’s general obligation debt. The agency also affirmed its ‘A+’ long-term rating on the state’s appropriation debt and maintained an ‘AA-’ rating on certain debt guaranteed through the West Virginia Municipal Bond Commission Program.

“The outlook revision reflects our view that the state will continue to demonstrate an ability to manage its budget through changes in the tax structure given strong budget management practices despite weaker economic tr