May 16, 2002

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 252 - Procurement - Unsolicited Proposals.

This bill authorizes the award of a procurement contract on the basis of an unsolicited proposal for specified service contracts even if the unsolicited proposal does not meet the requirements established for a sole source procurement. The unsolicited proposal must involve the delivery of business and economic development services, or educational, health or social services and must meet other criteria, including offering a novel or innovative concept. The bill creates an interagency panel that must review and concur in the award of a contract on the basis of an unsolicited proposal. Annual contract expenditures cannot exceed $1 million. The bill also requires a report each year from the Department of Budget and Management on usage of the new procurement method.

Senate Bill 719, 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 252.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor