May 16, 2002

The Honorable Casper R. Taylor, Jr.
Speaker of the House
State House
Annapolis MD 21401

Dear Mr. Speaker:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the Maryland Constitution, I have today vetoed House Bill 1287 - Employees' Pension System - Participating Governmental Units - Contributory Pension Benefit.

This bill provides participating governmental units that participate in the State Retirement and Pension System with an additional window of opportunity to transfer their employees from the pre-1998 Employees' Pension System to the enhanced, contributory Employees' Pension System benefit structure. This window would extend from the effective date of the bill to December 31, 2002.

Senate Bill 868, 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 1287.

Sincerely,
Parris N. Glendening
Governor