HARRY W. NICE, GOVERNOR. 1317

The present law has been in operation for two years and
there seems to be no valid reason for making a change at
this time. I have, therefore, vetoed this bill.

STATE SONG.

Chapter 182, Senate Bill 9, was introduced for the purpose
of formally adopting and legalizing "Maryland, My Mary-
land" as the state song.

I see nothing to be gained by such legislation. This song
has, for many years, been played and will continue to be
played as long as it appeals to the people, irrespective of
legislation on the subject.

TAKOMA PARK.

Chapter 485, Senate Bill 299, amends the Charter of
Takoma Park generally.

I have received numerous protests against the proposed
changes in the Charter and since no referendum is pro-
vided in the bill, I have vetoed it.

TEACHERS' OATH.

Chapter 404, House Bill 498, requires all teachers in the
public schools, colleges and universities, supported in whole
or in part by the State or any sub-division of the State, to
take the path of allegiance to the United States.

I take it that the real objective of the Legislature was to
prevent the dissemination of propaganda contrary to the
principles of pur form of constitutional government. As I
. view it, the bill totally fails of its purpose. It does not pre-
scribe a definite oath. While a teacher is disqualified from
teaching, there is no penalty for one who takes the oath and
then breaks it. There is no penalty upon the school that
connives at the failure to take the oath or in the violation
of it after it has been taken. There is no provision for with-
holding the State appropriation from any State-aided insti-
tution which is not living up to the letter and spirit of the
law. Therefore, I have concluded that, in its present form,
it becomes but a futile declamation of loyalty. To the loyal
this is unnecessary; to the disloyal it is meaningless. To
accomplish the purpose intended, that is, the safeguarding
of our nation against insidious and destructive propaganda,
such legislation should apply to all alike, and not transgress
the provisions of the Constitution of the United States or
that of Maryland. It should provide punishment sufficiently
severe to act as a discouragement and deterrent. An ap-