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 581 - Natural Gas Suppliers - Licensing and Consumer Protection.

This bill requires the Public Service Commission (PSC) to license natural gas suppliers. The PSC shall have the same authority over gas suppliers as it has over electricity suppliers, including the authority to revoke or suspend a license, impose a moratorium, civil penalty or other remedy. The PSC must adopt licensing requirements and procedures for gas suppliers that protect consumers, the public interest and the collection of all State and local taxes.

House Bill 1134, 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 581.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor