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 824 - Assisted Living Facilities - Certification - Third Party Accreditation Programs.

This bill will authorize the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to accept all or part of a specified accrediting report as meeting the State licensing requirements for the renewal of a license to operate an assisted living facility program.

Senate Bill 553, 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 824.

Sincerely,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor