1844                             Joint Resolutions

Whereas, A State Mediation Board would be a sensible, practical
means of aiding the resolution of labor problems; and

Whereas, The Board composed of full-time professional mediators
could aid in negotiations, maintain a grievance arbitration panel and
resolve other questions which might arise in labor areas, both private
and public; and

Whereas, The Board would mutually benefit public and private
sectors; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the General Assembly of Maryland, That the establish-
ment of a State Mediation Board be considered and that the Governor
be requested to appoint a commission to study the creation of the
Board. The commission shall consist of 4 members of the General
Assembly and 4 persons appointed by the Governor who are familiar
with the area of labor; all of whom shall serve without pay but who
shall receive reimbursement for their actual, necessary expenses.
The commission shall report its findings and recommendations to the
1972 session of the General Assembly.

Approved May 6, 1971.

No. 42
(House Joint Resolution 80)

House Joint Resolution requesting the Maryland Historical Trust
to study the feasibility of converting existing overhead electric
and communication facilities to underground locations in local
and State historical areas.

Whereas, There has been much interest in recent years regard-
ing the conversion of overhead electric and communication facilities
to underground locations and in locating all such new facilities
underground through the State; and

Whereas, There has been progress in this area with the advent
of provisions in the Public Service Commission Law relating to
special assessment proceedings and the planning of some subdivisions
for the installation of underground facilities; and

Whereas, The beauty and gracefulness of many of our treasured
local and State historical areas is blighted with unsightly overhead
lines which spring up in the name of progress well after the estab-
lishment of these landmarks; and

Whereas, Local and State preservation groups have worked long
and hard in the restoration of historical areas, but because of the
nature and cost of conversion of overhead facilities, this problem is
beyond their present capability to remedy; and

Whereas, The preservation and maintenance of historical areas
is a legitimate State interest because of their value for recreation,
tourism and education; now, therefore, be it