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 837 - Workers' Compensation Benefits - Fraud.

This bill Requires the Maryland Insurance Commissioner to include specified information in an annual report; requires the Insurance Fraud Division to notify the Workers' Compensation Commission of specified suspected cases of insurance fraud; requires the Commission to refer specified persons to the Insurance Fraud Division under specified circumstances; requires the Commission, in consultation with the Insurance Fraud Division and in collaboration with specified persons and organizations, to conduct a study.

Senate Bill 639, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on May 26, 2004, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 837.

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