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 567 - Health Insurance - Access to Obstetric and Gynecological Services.

This bill requires a health insurer, nonprofit health service plan or HMO (carrier) to allow an enrollee to receive medically necessary, routine obstetric and gynecological care from an in-network, certified nurse midwife or any other in-network provider authorized under the law to provide obstetric and gynecological services without first requiring the enrollee to visit a primary care provider.

House Bill 669, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on May 11, 2000, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign Senate Bill 567.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor