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 655 - Real Property - Redemption of Ground Rents.

This bill authorizes a process for the redemption of ground rents including allowing a tenant to apply to redeem a ground rent if the landlord does not respond to notice by paying the redemption amount into a fund held by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation.

House Bill 1030, 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 655.

Sincerely,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor