998 ADDRESSES AND STATE PAPERS

such an experience untouched. I came through convinced that, until
we can provide a total environmental change, we cannot assure an
end to the deprivation and frustration that breed the toleration of
violence. This means a redoubled effort by all levels of government,
a dynamic infusion of private initiative, and total commitment to this
cause on the part of every citizen.

The potential for violence and destruction will always exist in a
free society. The exploiters and extremists will strike their self-serving
flints, hopeful that the sparks will ignite in an explosive atmosphere
of despair. We cannot condone the actions of the professional law-
breakers — fortunately they are only a few — but neither can we al-
low the climate of frustration to continue. The violent voices will
be repudiated by the community if we do our part to provide an en-
vironment of opportunity and understanding.

I am convinced there is no cause more urgent in America. Per-
manent resolution will only be achieved in a climate of disciplined
dedication and peace. It is my fervent prayer that the next Governor
will have the full cooperation of all citizens in this momentous task.

Beyond the violence in Maryland's cities, one action stands out
above all others as a source of personal anguish. This was the deci-
sion to withdraw medical assistance to 20, 000 Maryland citizens,
needy but above the welfare level. The fact that I was virtually com-
pelled to do this because of an unpredictable budgetary crisis does
not diminish the pain. The fact that a similar crisis provoked a
similar reaction in almost every one of the fifty states does not lessen
my sorrow. I can find justification by citing the escalating costs to
the states of the Federally enacted Medicaid program, but I cannot
find comfort.

But in the balance, our successes far outweigh our failures. We
have been able to accelerate State highway construction through re-
visions in the gasoline tax distribution formula. We have been able
to launch Maryland's first statewide highway safety program. We have
been able to expedite interstate highway construction. And we shall
have three new bridges across the Chesapeake Bay and a second tun-
nel beneath the Baltimore Harbor paid for exclusively by users' tolls.

Certainly, one of the greatest of our achievements of the past two
years is the massive water quality control program, financed through
a $129 million bond issue. This project is designed to combat, elim-
inate and ultimately prevent the pollution of Maryland's waters.
It is my hope that this program will be remembered as our contribu-