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 1031 - Health Care Providers - Collection of Medicare Approved or Limiting Amounts.

This bill authorizes a health care provider to collect Medicare approved or limiting amounts, from individual subscribers or enrollees, when Medicare is the primary insurer and a health maintenance organization is the secondary insurer.

Senate Bill 451, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me on May 11, 2004, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign House Bill 1031.

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