May 26, 2004

The Honorable Michael E. Busch
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 787 - Baltimore City - Issuance of Citations - Gambling.

This bill authorizes the issuance of citations for specified offenses in Baltimore City relating to gambling. It establishes that a citation may be issued by a police officer authorized to make arrests in Baltimore City, and that a citation can be issued only if there is probable cause to believe a specified offense was committed. It establishes the required contents of a citation, and requires the agency issuing the citation to forward the citation to the appropriate court.

Senate Bill 425, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on April 27, 2004, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 787.

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