May 26, 2005

The Honorable Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr.
President of the Senate
State House
Annapolis, MD 21401

Dear Mr. President:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the Maryland Constitution, today I have vetoed Senate Bill 316 - Health Insurance - Pharmacies - Electronic Reimbursement.

This bill requires insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and health maintenance organizations to reimburse a pharmacy electronically and provide appropriate payment data electronically under specified circumstances. Senate Bill 316 also prohibits the imposition of a specified processing fee. House Bill 417, which was passed by the General Assembly and signed by me, accomplishes the same purpose. Therefore, it is not necessary for me to sign Senate Bill 316.

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