May 22, 2003

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, today I have vetoed Senate Bill 554 - Medicaid Reimbursement - Community-Based Services for Children with Disabilities.

This bill requires the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to apply to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for an amendment to the State Medical Assistance Program. This amendment, if approved, will allow the Department to receive specified federal matching funds for part of the nonroom-and-board portion of certain residential care costs.

House Bill 405, 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 554.

Sincerely,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor