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 1285 - Optional Retirement Program - Eligibility.

This pension bill alters the eligibility provisions for the Optional Retirement Program to include individuals in positions designated as exempt by the Board of Regents of the University System of Maryland or the Board of Regents of Morgan State University. The bill also provides that an individual who was a participant in the Optional Retirement Program as of a specified date may continue to participate in the Program under specified circumstances. This bill is an emergency measure. Senate Bill 514, 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 1285.

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