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 1341 - Public Health - Child Abuse and Neglect Centers of Excellence Initiative.

This bill establishes a Child Abuse and Neglect Centers of Excellence Initiative in the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Moreover, House Bill 1341 provides for the duties of the Centers of Excellence faculty and authorizes a Center of Excellence to receive specified information from the Department and to consult with the Department on specified cases. Senate Bill 782, 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 1341.

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