STATE OF THE STATE MESSAGE 625

It would seem logical to continue our alliance to people-principle-
progress that I spoke of in my inaugural address. It would seem in-
telligent, even self-serving, to maintain our team pursuit of excellence.
Yet we know that some of us will be provoked by appeals to partisan
pride and ambition to take actions not in the best interests of the
State. Let me say that I will resist these divisive pressures and hope
that you will do the same. There will be plenty of opportunity to
flex party muscles over minor matters. In addition, the national elec-
tion will provide an interesting political contest for our vicarious
enjoyment.

Today, as we convene again for this report on the state of our State,
let us briefly review last year's accomplishments and crystallize some
primary objectives for the coming session. I hope these objectives will
represent a blend of the best proposals of the administration and the
Legislative Council.

Last year, you enabled a Constitutional Convention to be called.
It was successful and, with ratification, constitutional reform will be
achieved. You enacted fiscal reform providing the means for every
subdivision in Maryland to build new schools and to better wage a
war against crime. You approved model air pollution legislation and
Maryland's first fair housing statute.

Pursuing excellence in conscience, judgment, and deed you have
brought Maryland far, but the task is not done. In a single year your
record is one of unprecedented accomplishment, and yet we have so
much more to do. All that you have done merits acclaim and grati-
tude; yet we cannot be complacent. We must press forward.

The 1967 General Assembly session was characterized by truly un-
usual legislative activity and creativity. I am confident that you will
build upon this record and in the 1968 session concentrate upon leg-
islation designed to complete and consolidate last year's gains.

Fiscal reform, the single greatest but most misunderstood act of the
1967 General Assembly, still requires refinement. Reform of Mary-
land's business tax structure must be completed. Revisions are neces-
sary in the motor vehicle revenue and gasoline tax distribution for-
mulae. New revenues are needed to salvage our State's beleagured
highway construction programs.

Fiscal reform was designed to help the subdivisions, and it has ful-
filled its objective. Over $70 million in State aid for public educa-
tion was provided for local governments. Almost $16 million addi-