May 26, 2005

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, today I have vetoed Senate Bill 464 - State Government - Energy Efficiency Standards.

This bill alters the minimum efficiency standards for specific products and repeals certain minimum efficiency standards for specified products. It authorizes the Maryland Energy Administration to limit certain delays and requires the Administration to adopt procedures for testing the energy efficiency of new products by rule, after public notice and comment. Finally, Senate Bill 464 authorizes manufacturers who make specified certifications in other states to use the same certifications in Maryland under specified circumstances. House Bill 1030, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign Senate Bill 464.

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