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NEWS CONFERENCE
May 25, 1967

OPENING STATEMENT BY THE GOVERNOR

We are today issuing a proclamation declaring June 13, the day of
the Constitutional (""". (-invention election, a legal holiday for which I
will read the proclamation:

Whereas, the date of June 13, 1967, has been set by the General
Assembly for a special election day for the purpose of electing
delegates to the Maryland Constitutional Convention; and
whereas, this will be one of the most important days in Maryland
civic and political life in this century since those chosen will par-
ticipate in the framing of a new basic document of government
for the first time in 100 years; and whereas, it is of vital impor-
tance that every qualified voter of Maryland be afforded ample
opportunity to exercise his franchise in this election. Now, there-
fore, I, Spiro T. Agnew, Governor of the State of Maryland, by
virtue of the power vested in me do hereby proclaim June 13,
1967, as a legal holiday in the State of Maryland, and I urge that
business and industry give appropriate attention to this day and
do whatever is possible to encourage their employees to vote.
Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the State of Maryland
at the City of Annapolis this 25th day of May in the year of our
Lord, 1967.

Q. Governor, does that mean schools will be closed?

A. I'm not certain whether this is a mandated proposition with the
schools or whether it's up to the individual decision of the Board of
Education. Generally, schools are not closed on all the legal holidays,
as I recall. I would guess it would be up to the boards,

Q. Governor, do you intend to send a copy of this to the Civil Service
Commission in Washington and ask them to be lenient with Federal
employees in giving them adequate leave?

A. I hadn't thought of that, but I'd certainly be glad to do it if it
would be of assistance in bringing to the attention of the Federal of-
ficials how important we regard this election in Maryland.

Q. Can we go one step farther and say you'll do it?
A. At your suggestion, I'll do it.