May 26, 2004

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, I have today vetoed House Bill 347 - Harford County - Alcoholic Beverages Licenses - Issuance on Basis of Population.

This bill authorizes in Harford County a winery that has been issued a Class A light wine license to sell in any quantity to consumers at retail or the winery light wines and port wines produced at the winery, not in excess of 23 percent of alcohol by volume.

Senate Bill 228, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on April 27, 2004, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 347.

Very truly yours,
Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.
Governor