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 389 - Maryland Pharmacy Act - Practice of Pharmacy - Administration of the Influenza Vaccination.

This bill alters the definition of the term "practice pharmacy" to include administering an influenza vaccination in accordance with specified regulations. It requires the Board of Pharmacy, together with the State Board of Physicians, and the State Board of Nursing to jointly develop and to adopt specified regulations. It provides for the effective date of specified provisions of the Act, and provides for the termination of specified provisions of the Act.

House Bill 384, 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 389.

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