May 22, 2003

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 576 - Cecil County - Board of Education - Selection of Members.

This bill is intended to require that members of the Cecil County Board of Education be elected. Additionally, the bill establishes a procedure for the election of members of the Cecil County Board of Education, and sets a specified term of office for elected members. Finally, the bill submits the Act to a referendum vote of the legally qualified voters of Cecil County in November 2004, the question of whether to have an elected or appointed school board.

Senate Bill 518, 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 576.

Sincerely,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor