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 273 - Mental Hygiene Administration - Emergency Evaluation - Standards and Content.

This bill modifies the standards for emergency evaluations of individuals with mental disorders under specified circumstances. Senate Bill 273 also authorizes certain health professionals and peace officers to base the petition for emergency evaluation on certain information and modifies the required elements of a petition for emergency evaluation.

House Bill 668, 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 273.

Sincerely,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor