May 22, 2003

The Honorable Michael E. Busch
Speaker of the House
State House
Annapolis MD 21401

Dear Mr. Speaker:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the Maryland Constitution, today I have vetoed House Bill 245 - Residential Child Care Programs - State-Funded Operators - Licensing Provisions.

This bill requires a licensed operator of a residential childcare program who receives State funding to meet specified academic needs of a child in the operator's care. The bill further exempts specified licensed operators from specified requirements, and requires specified group homes to comply with these provisions. Finally, the bill requires the department that licenses the group home to notify specified group homes of these provisions.

Senate Bill 178, 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 245.

Sincerely,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor