May 26, 2005

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, today I have vetoed House Bill 200 - Libraries - Funding - Public Libraries and Regional Resource Centers.

This bill phases in enhancements to the formulas that fund public libraries over a four-year period. Beginning in fiscal 2007, the current $12 per resident amount for the State library formula is raised by $1 per year to reach $16 by fiscal 2010. During the same four-year period, the current $4.50 per resident State aid amount for libraries that act as regional resource centers is raised by $1 per year to reach $8.50 per resident by fiscal 2010. Senate Bill 421, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 200.

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