May17,2001

The Honorable Casper R. Taylor, Jr.
Speaker of the House
State House
Annapolis MD 21401

Dear Mr. Speaker:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the Maryland Constitution, I have today vetoed House Bill 114 - Natural Resources - Abandoned Vessels - Period of Abandonment.

This bill reduces the length of time, from 180 days to 90 days, that a vessel must remain at a private marina, a private boatyard, a private dock or at or near waters' edge on private property without consent in order to be declared "abandoned." The Department of Natural Resources must send a certified mail notice to the owner of an abandoned vessel no later than 15 days in advance of seizing an abandoned vessel.

Senate Bill 74, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 114.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor