THEODORE R. MCKELDIN, GOVERNOR                    351

In the mid-seventeenth century, Blackstone laid down the rule that
'The liberty of the press ..... consists in laying no previous restraint
upon publications and not in freedom from censure for criminal
matters when published. Every freeman has an undoubted right to
lay what sentiments he pleases before the public; to forbid this is
to destroy the freedom of the press; but if he publishes what is
improper, mischievous or illegal, he must take the consequence of
his own temerity."

The dual concept of freedom and responsibilty has become a
cornerstone of American liberty. The very first amendment in the
Bill of Rights of the Constitution of the United States proclaims
that "Congress shall make no law ..... abridging the freedom of
speech, or of the press ....." In Maryland, Article 40 of the Declara-
tion of Rights says similarly "that the liberty of the press ought to
be inviolably preserved; that every citizen of the State ought to be
allowed to speak, write and publish his sentiments on all subjects,
being responsible for the abuse of that privilege."

We congratulate the Maryland Press Association and the news-
papers of Maryland for their great role in disseminating informa-
tion to our people, and for their fine record in observing the re-
sponsibilities as well as the privileges of journalism; now, therefore,
be it

Resolved by the General Assembly of Maryland, That this body
reaffirms its steadfast belief in the priceless American heritage of
freedom of the press and commends the Maryland Press Associa-
tion for its part in promoting the high standards of its great pro-
fession; and be it further

Resolved, That the Secretary of State of Maryland be directed to
send a copy of this Resolution to the Maryland Press Association,
under the Great Seal of the State of Maryland.

Approved April 4, 1958.

No. 16
(Senate Joint Resolution 22)

Senate Joint Resolution requesting that all agencies spending State
or other public funds on public works projects so prepare their
specifications that certain preference be given to the employment
of Maryland residents and requesting the Board of Public Works
to coordinate and cooperate with the State agencies in the prepa-
ration of a proper specification on which bids are based.

WHEREAS, because of the existing business recession many resi-
dents of this State are without employment and it is believed to be

EXPLANATION: Italics indicate new matter added to existing law.

[Brackets] indicate matter stricken from existing law.
CAPITALS indicate amendments to bill.
Strike out indicates matter stricken out of bill.