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 998 - Workers' Compensation - Self-Insurance Groups.

This bill requires a self-insurance group to pay all workers' compensation benefits for which each member incurs liability during its period of membership. Each member is jointly and severally liable for the workers' compensation obligations of the group and its members that are incurred during its membership period. The insolvency or bankruptcy of a member does not relieve the self-insurance group or any other of its members from liability for paying workers' compensation benefits incurred during the insolvent or bankrupt member's period of membership.

Senate Bill 763, 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 998.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor