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 1220 - Correctional Services - Concurrent and Consecutive Sentences - Offenders on Parole.

This bill repeals the requirement that a new sentence run consecutively to the time to be served on the original term when an individual is convicted of a crime committed while on parole; requires a court to determine if a new sentence is to run concurrently or consecutively, as required under Maryland Rule 4-351(a)(5); and requires that if a new sentence is to run consecutively, the new sentence shall begin at a specified time.

Senate Bill 884, 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 1220.

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