HERBERT R. O'CONOR, GOVERNOR. 1997

"for drinking while on duty", the officer was charged with
"being under the influence of intoxicating liquor" and admitted
that the accusation was well-founded. In writing me, Com-
missioner Stanton states that he has maintained a policy of
dealing more drastically with officers who are intoxicated
than with those who were merely charged with drinking.

It is admitted that Officer Klingle had a favorable record in
the Army and has since his discharge been an active member
of the Veterans' organizations. It is also stated that his record
in the Police Department, other than in this particular in-
stance, was good. The important consideration, however, seems
to be that there is a reguar method by which such members can
seek reinstatement. To undertake by Legislative enactment
the compulsory reinstatement of an officer when all the facts
may not be before the General Assembly, would destroy the
purpose of the requirements for reinstatement as set out in the
general law.

The Police Commissioner is the legally constituted head of
the Police Department and he gives it as his definite opinion
that reinstatement in this manner is wrong and would be unfair
to others who have been denied similar treatment.

Under the circumstances, therefore, I am acting in accord-
ance with the Commissioner's recommendation and am vetoing
the Bill.

RACING.

Chapter 783 (Senate Bill 316). This enactment covers the
same subject matter as does Chapter 994 whicn was House
Bill No. 642 and which latter Bill has received executive
approval.

Both measures carry out the recommendation of the Mary-
land Racing Commission, pertaining to necessary regulations
for the emergency.

The Racing Commission and also the Attorney-General, in
requesting the approval of Chapter 994, asked that Senate Bill
316 be vetoed because of the fact that it duplicates the former,
and for this reason, I am disapproving Senate Bill 316.

ROADS.

Chapter 861 (Senate Bill 475). The State Roads Commission
advises that the cost would be prohibitive if executive approval
is given this Bill which required the State Roads Commission
to take over and maintain a road of approximately 10 miles
in length to the public landing on Sinepuxent Bay in the 10th
Election District of Worcester County.

Estimates of from $150,000 to $200,000 are given as the
possible cost of this suggested improvement. Under present