The 'AA' rating on Portage, Mich.'s bonds reflects: Coverage of 1.40 times (x) maximum annual debt service by prior year receipts, Solid growth in the pledged revenue stream, and Strong economic performance in Michigan (AAA GO). The bonds are secured by a first-lien pledge of 50% of the annual gas and weight taxes received from the state according to state law Act 51, Public Acts of Michigan. Michigan's economic performance is demonstrated by: Good income growth, Some diversification of the employment base, and A trend of unemployment rates that are below the national average despite labor force increases. The distribution formula in Act 51 provides that all monies deposited in the transportation fund, after deduction of certain specified amounts, be