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 579 - Pilot Program to Study and Improve Screening Practices for Autism Spectrum Disorders.

This bill establishes a Pilot Program to Study and Improve Screening Practices for Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Department of Education. House Bill 579 also requires the Department of Education, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, to select and establish relationships with specified providers to participate in the Pilot Program, assess and identify autism spectrum disorders screening instruments, and develop training materials and distribute written information on early detection of autism spectrum disorders. Senate Bill 834, 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 579.

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