May17,2001

The Honorable Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr.
President of the Senate
State House
Annapolis MD 21401

Dear Mr. President:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the Maryland Constitution, I have today vetoed Senate Bill 209 - Bulletproof Body Armor - Prohibitions.

This bill prohibits a person from wearing or possessing bulletproof body armor during and in relation to a "drug trafficking crime." The bill also prohibits a person who has been convicted of a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime from using, possessing or purchasing bulletproof body armor unless the person petitions for and obtains a permit from the Secretary of State Police. The bill establishes petition and permit procedures, as specified, and requires the Secretary to adopt regulations to carry out these provisions. A violator of these provisions is subject to maximum penalties of a fine of $5,000 and/or imprisonment for five years.

House Bill 305, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign Senate Bill 209.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor