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 793 - State Finance and Procurement - Funding for Public Art.

This bill establishes the Maryland Public Art Initiative Program and requires that specified grantees provide and expend a matching fund prior to the award of specified grants. The bill requires the Maryland State Arts Council to develop regulations to implement the Maryland Public Art Initiative Program, establishes the Maryland Commission on Public Art, specifies the membership of the Commission and establishes the Maryland Public Art Fund. House Bill 749, 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 793.

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