May 16, 2002

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 974 - Juvenile Law - Transfer of Cases to Juvenile Court.

This bill adds a preponderance of the evidence standard to a court's determination of whether transferring jurisdiction from criminal court to juvenile court is in the interest of the child or society. The bill also requires a criminal court to make a transfer determination at sentencing under specified circumstances.

Senate Bill 428, 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 974.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor