Press Release - Governor Martin O'Malley Vetoes Bill, Allows Others to Become Law without Signature
ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 21, 2008) – Governor Martin O’Malley allowed two bills to become law today without his signature, including a bill which formally defines flavored malt beverages as beer. In addition, Governor O’Malley vetoed one bill.
Governor O’Malley allowed the following bills to become law without his signature:
- SB 251 / HB 303 – Anne Arundel County – Well Drillers – Permit Fee
- SB 745 – Alcoholic Beverages – Definitions – Beer
“While these bills today will become law in Maryland, the absence of my signature should indicate to the General Assembly that there is work left to be done,” said Governor O’Malley in announcing the decision today.
“In particular, I look forward to returning to the flavored malt beverage issue during the next legislative session, working with advocates on both sides, to build a broader consensus for regulating these alcoholic beverages. It is my opinion that the Constitution contemplates, and the public expects, major regulatory and taxation decisions of this nature to be made in the fullness of legislative consideration, not through the chance confluence of an opinion of the Attorney General and the veto of a Governor.”
“I will, therefore, be working with the Attorney General and interested parties in the upcoming Session of the Maryland General Assembly to build a broader consensus for regulating more effectively what many would rightly conclude is a fourth category of alcoholic beverages.”
___________________________________________________________________
