May 26, 2005

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, today I have vetoed House Bill 541 - Frederick County - Collective Bargaining - Representatives for Deputy Sheriffs.

This bill authorizes the representatives of specified full-time deputy sheriffs in the Frederick County Sheriff's Office to collectively bargain with the Sheriff of Frederick County concerning wages and benefits, requires that any additional funding required as a result of a negotiated agreement be subject to the approval of the County Commissioners for Frederick County, and provides for the procedures for certifying a labor organization as an exclusive representative and for collective bargaining negotiations. Senate Bill 352, 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 541.

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