Illinois' bond rating continues to slide. Standard and Poor's has lowered Illinois to an A minus. The impact could mean it will cost Illinois more to borrow money for various projects and needs.
Last year, Illinois had a summer that wasn't just hot, but historically hot. July was the hottest month ever recorded in the U.S., and more than 150 heat-related records were set in Illinois alone.
All three major credit rating agencies have labeled Illinois' financial outlook a "negative." Fitch issued its downgrade Friday. Fitch blames its action on lawmakers' failure to pass a pension overhaul before adjourning Tuesday.
