Standard&Poor's Ratings Services has assigned its 'AA+' rating to the State of Minnesota?s general obligation (GO) series 2013 A, B, and C bonds. At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its 'AA+' rating, and stable outlook, on Minnesota's GO state bonds. Standard&Poor's also affirmed its 'AA' rating on the state's appropriation debt outstanding and its 'A+' rating on an issue backed by the state's moral obligation. The outlook is stable. Credit factors supporting the ratings include our view of the state's: Deep and diverse economy, with the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan statistical area, the center of the upper Midwest economy, anchoring regional economic hubs; Improved financial results, including the restoration of reserves and repayment of deferrals;
