The Coronavirus Has Not Affected Maine’s Credit Rating. Here’s Why That Matters.

Click here for the latest coronavirus news, which the BDN has made free for the public. You can support our critical reporting on the coronavirus by purchasing a digital subscription or donating directly to the newsroom. AUGUSTA, Maine — Maine’s credit rating remains unchanged despite the severe coronavirus-related economic shock, a positive sign for the state’s future ability to invest in infrastructure and other projects. Half a dozen states have seen their credit ratings decline since the coronavirus outbreak began, but two firms, Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s, determined that Maine has a stable outlook, the governor’s office announced Wednesday. [Our COVID-19 tracker contains the most recent information on Maine cases by county] A strong credit rating does not mean that Maine will avoid fiscal challenges.