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 474 - Health Occupations - State Board of Examiners in Optometry - Scope of Practice.

This bill authorizes therapeutically certified optometrists to administer and prescribe specified pharmaceutical agents. Moreover, Senate Bill 474 authorizes therapeutically certified optometrists to administer or prescribe topical steroids in accordance with a specified practice protocol. House Bill 719, 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 474.

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