May 26, 2004

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, I have today vetoed House Bill 529 - State Board of Nursing - Skilled Nursing Assistants - Establishment and Certification .

This bill requires the State Board of Nursing to adopt regulations establishing categories of skilled nursing assistants in specified settings. It requires the Board to adopt regulations establishing qualifications for each category of skilled nursing assistant. It also requires skilled nursing assistants, within a category of nursing assistant, to meet requirements set by the Board to qualify for certification, and requires skilled nursing assistants to meet specified additional requirements to renew a certification.

Senate Bill 406, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on May 11, 2004, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 529.

Very truly yours,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor