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 577 - Community Services Reimbursement Rate Commission - Termination Date Extension and Modifications.

This bill extends the termination date for the Community Services Reimbursement Rate Commission. Senate Bill 577 also requires the Commission to study the variation in specified costs and recommend whether the rates should include specified adjustments. Moreover, the Commission must review the changes in specified payments and the utilization of specified services. House Bill 896, 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 577.

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