May18,2000

The Honorable Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr.
President of the Senate
State House
Annapolis MD 21401

Dear Mr. President:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the Maryland Constitution, I have today vetoed Senate Bill 740 - Procurement - Action by Supplier on Payment Security.

This bill prohibits a contract between a supplier and a contractor or subcontractor from waiving or requiring the supplier to waive the right to sue on payment security. It also prohibits a contract that conditions payment to the supplier on receipt of payment from a public body or other third party from abrogating the right of the supplier to sue on payment security. A provision of a contract made in violation of these provisions is void as against public policy.

House Bill 928, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me today, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign Senate Bill 740.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor