May 26, 2005

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 224 - Anne Arundel County and the City of Annapolis - Fire and Explosive Investigators - Authority.

This bill extends to an Anne Arundel County or City of Annapolis fire and explosive investigator operating in Anne Arundel County or the City of Annapolis the authority of the State Fire Marshal and full-time investigative and inspection assistants in that office to make warrantless arrests and exercise powers of arrest. It also authorizes an Anne Arundel County or City of Annapolis fire and explosive investigator to exercise specified authority while operating outside Anne Arundel County or the City of Annapolis under specified circumstances. Senate Bill 144, 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 224.

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