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 926 - Criminal Law - Theft, Bad Checks, and Credit Card Crimes - District Court Offenses.

This bill establishes determinations as to the value of property or services involving specified theft crimes. It also establishes penalties for theft of property or services with a value of less than $100, and that action or prosecution for specified crimes must be commenced within 2 years.

Senate Bill 513, 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 926.

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