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 1142 - Children in Need of Assistance - Drug-Addicted Babies - Modifications.

This bill modifies a presumption that a child is not receiving proper care and attention from the mother for purposes of determining whether the child is a "child in need of assistance." Under the bill, the presumption would apply if the child was exposed to cocaine, heroin, or their derivatives, drug treatment is made available to the mother, and the mother either refuses the recommended level of drug treatment or does not successfully complete the recommended level of drug treatment. The evidence of exposure may be derived from any appropriate tests of the mother or child.

Senate Bill 495, 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 1142.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor