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 1374 - Baltimore City - Redemption of Ground Rents - Abandoned or Distressed Property.

This bill establishes that when the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore City condemn specified property that is subject to a redeemable ground rent, the City becomes the tenant of the ground rent and requires a tenant seeking to redeem a ground rent on abandoned or distressed property subject to condemnation in Baltimore City to pay specified back rent and provide an affidavit to the State Department of Assessments and Taxation. Senate Bill 322, 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 1374.

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