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 635 - Criminal Law - Contradictory Statements - Prosecution and Charging.

This bill prohibits a person from willfully and falsely making an oath or affirmation as to a material fact. It expands the application of a violation of the Act to include affidavits required by any state, federal, or local government or government official, and provides for the prosecution of a violation of the Act involving two contradictory statements in either county in which the statements are made.

Senate Bill 204, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on April 27, 2004, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 635.

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