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 241 - Victims' Rights - Conditions of Pretrial or Prehearing Release.

This bill authorizes a court, a District Court commissioner or a juvenile intake officer, if reasonable safety protections have been requested by the victim, to include "a condition of no contact" with the alleged victim or alleged victim's premises or place of employment as a condition of pretrial or prehearing release. The bill eliminates the need for safety of the victim to be considered only in cases involving stalking or a felony.

House Bill 507, 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 241.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor