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 538 - Election Laws - Study Commission on Public Funding of Campaigns in Maryland.

This bill establishes a 15-member Study Commission on Public Funding of Campaigns in Maryland. The commission is required to: (1) collect information regarding public funding of State legislative campaigns in other jurisdictions in the U.S.; (2) identify the changes in the State election code necessary for public funding of State campaign; (3) analyze current practices in Maryland relating to the financing of campaigns; (4) receive testimony where suitable; and (5) if appropriate, propose recommendations for a public campaign financing system in Maryland.

Senate Bill 471, 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 538.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor