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 1410 - Health Insurance - Treatment of Morbid Obesity.

This bill clarifies the circumstances under which insurers, nonprofit health service plans, health maintenance organizations, and managed care organizations must provide coverage for the surgical treatment of morbid obesity and establishes a Task Force to Study Utilization Review of the Surgical Treatment of Morbid Obesity.

Senate Bill 868, 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 1410.

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