May 22, 2003

The Honorable Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr.
President of the Senate
State House
Annapolis MD 21401

Dear Mr. President:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the Maryland Constitution, today I have vetoed Senate Bill 206 - Qualified Hybrid Vehicles - Exemption from Motor Vehicle Emissions Test and Inspection Requirements.

This bill exempts a hybrid vehicle from the State's Vehicle Emissions Inspections Program if its city fuel economy is at least 50 miles per gallon, as rated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It also requires the Motor Vehicle Administration to adopt regulations to implement the exemption. The bill terminates September 30, 2007.

House Bill 61, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign Senate Bill 206.

Sincerely,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor