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 242 - Shoplifting and Employee Theft - Civil Penalties.

This bill increases, from $500 to $1,000, the maximum civil penalty that a merchant may be awarded against a responsible person for shoplifting and employee theft. The increased penalty is prohibited from being applied to a cause of action arising before October 1, 2001.

Senate Bill 265, 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 242.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor