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 895 - Criminal Procedure - Sex Offenses - Prohibition Against Probation Before Judgment.

This bill includes specified additional sex offenses among those offenses for which a court is prohibited from staying the entering of judgment and placing a defendant on probation. Senate Bill 107, 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 895.

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