May 26, 2004

The Honorable Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr.
President of the Senate
State House
Annapolis, MD 21401

Dear Mr. President:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the Maryland Constitution, I have today vetoed Senate Bill 343 - Health Facilities - Nursing Homes - Family Council.

This bill provides for the composition of a family council, and authorizes a family council to be created or led by the owner, operator, or staff of a nursing home under specified circumstances. It requires a nursing home to give new and prospective residents specified information about a family council in the nursing home, and requires the nursing home to respond in writing to any written grievance or other communication from the family council within 14 calendar days, after receiving a communication.

House Bill 484, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on May 11, 2004, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign Senate Bill 343.

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