May17,2001

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, I have today vetoed Senate Bill 210 - Procurement - Minority Business Participation.

This bill alters the goal for the percentage of the total dollar value of procurement contracts with minority business enterprises and extends the Minority Business Participation program to July 1, 2006. The bill also requires a study, due by September 30, 2005, to evaluate the program's compliance with the Croson decision, and any race neutral or other methods to address the needs of minority businesses.

House Bill 306, 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 210.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor