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 707 - Maryland Medical Assistance Program - Medical Loss Ratio and Quality of Care.

This bill authorizes a managed care organization or a certified health maintenance organization to appeal a specified decision of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene under specified circumstances; authorizes a managed care organization to take a specified appeal under the Administrative Procedure Act under specified circumstances; and requires the Secretary to adopt specified regulations prior to making a specified adjustment to capitation payments. House Bill 85, 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 707.

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