May17,2001

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 276 - Environment - Sanitary Sewer Overflows - Reporting.

This bill requires the owner or operator of any sanitary sewer system, combined sewer system or wastewater treatment plant to report to the Maryland Department of the Environment any sewer overflow or treatment plant bypass that results in a direct or potential discharge of raw or diluted sewage into the surface waters or ground waters of the State. The report must be made by telephone as soon as practicable but no later than 24 hours after the time that the operator or owner became aware of the event. Within five calendar days after the notification, the owner or operator must provide the Department with a written report regarding the incident.

Senate Bill 418, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 276.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor