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 728 - This bill alters the eligibility requirements of the Maryland Pharmacy Discount Program to cover individuals who are not Medicare beneficiaries, who lack other public or private prescription drug coverage, and who have an annual household income below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Further, Senate Bill 728 authorizes specified enrollees in the Program to receive a discount subsidized by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for specified prescription drugs.
House Bill 1143, 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 728.
Very truly yours,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor