Bierman: S&P downgrade an example of need for state budget - Jared DuBach, McDonough County Voice

After 22 months without a true budget and the shaky prospect for a budget being passed by the General Assembly by June, the financial entity S&P Global Ratings has dropped Western Illinois University’s rating to BB-. The reduction drops three places from the prior BBB- rating. Public universities also impacted in the recent decision include Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, Northeastern Illinois University, University of Illinois, Governor’s State, Eastern Illinois University and Illinois State University. The recent rating action by S&P continues to underscore why we need the Illinois state government to pass a budget and end the 22-month impasse,” stated Matt Bierman, budget director for Western. “At Western Illinois University, we are good stewards of our resources and we will continue to offer a quality education. We are actively recruiting students, accepting applications, and planning ahead for future semesters.“ http://www.mcdonoughvoice.com/news/20170425/bierman-sp-downgrade-example-of-need-for-state-budget