2066 VETOES.

of the bridge to use the same and approaches without charge.
It should be stated that the measure provides that if this
complete exemption is held invalid by the Courts, commutation
tickets at reduced rates should be issued. As the opinion
points out, commutation tickets are justified alone on the basis
of extensive use, and not because of the place of residence
of the particular holder.

Representatives of automobile clubs also point out that the
only justification for tolls is in the creation of entirely new
facilities. Under this bill, bridge tolls would be used for the
construction of an additional highway. The contention is also
made that motorists are already heavily burdened by taxation
and that until it is shown that no other means are available
for this improvement, a new system of tolls should not be
invoked.

Under the circumstances, I feel compelled to veto the
measure.

SCHOOLS.

Chapter 123 (House Bill 191). This measure seeks to repeal
and re-enact with amendments Section 45 of Article 77 of the
Code, title "Public Education, " sub-title "Chapter 4—County
Board of Education. " Its applicability is limited to Allegany
and Garrett Counties.

The main purpose of the Bill is to bring about a situation
where the title to school buildings, sites and grounds which
are no longer needed for school purposes which vest in the
County Commissioners. Provision is made that the County
Commissioners may sell, lease or otherwise dispose of such
property.

The Board of Education of Garrett County and the County
Superintendent of Schools of that County unanimously oppose
its approval. In their protest they point out that the enact-
ment might deprive the Board of Education of property for
which it may later have a genuine need in promoting the
educational interests of the county. It is further shown that
legal questions might be raised which would complicate the
handling of the property, the title to which, after having been
vested in one County Board, would revert to another County
Board. The School authorities contend that these technicali-
ties would nullify any steps that might be taken to put in force
the provisions of the Act.

In view of the attitude of the School authorities and because
of the serious question affecting school administration which
is raised, I feel compelled to veto the measure.