May27,1999

The Honorable Casper R. Taylor, Jr.
Speaker of the House
State House
Annapolis MD 21401

Dear Mr. Speaker:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the Maryland Constitution, I have today vetoed House Bill 997.

This bill establishes a State Highway Access Valuation Board to review decisions made by the State Highway Administration (SHA) regarding rights of access to highways. An owner of property that abuts a State highway may petition SHA to sell to the owner a right of access to the highway. SHA may grant the right of access and define the terms of the agreement or may deny the petition, citing the reasons for the denial. The owner may appeal to the valuation board if not satisfied with SHA's decision on the cost of access rights.

Senate Bill 728, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on May 27, 1999, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 997.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor