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 1425 - Health - General - Nursing Referral Service Agencies - Licensing.

This bill authorizes the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to issue, deny, suspend, or revoke a license for a nursing referral service agency. It requires a nursing referral service agency to obtain a license from the Department before operating nursing referral agency services, and requires a nursing referral services agency to apply for a criminal history records check or request a background check to screen licensed health professionals or specified care providers, and makes the Act an emergency measure.

Senate Bill 550, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on April 13, 2004, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 1425.

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