MARVIN MANDEL, Governor

4037

The two bills mentioned earlier require the testing
of horses entering Maryland on a 6 months basis.
Virginia has a 12 months test as well as Pennsylvania.
New Jersey has just moved from a 6 months test to a 12
months requirement. We are attempting to be comparable
with surrounding states in our requirements as well as
work with the Racing Commission, although I understand
the Maryland Standard Breeders' requirements are 6
months.

We are attempting to evaluate very carefully our
development of this program. It is possible through
regulation to strengthen our requirements and even change
the testing period if we find it advisable. However, at
this time we would like to develop what we believe to be
practical regulations and avoid moving to a 6 months test
requirement as mandated by these two bills. I have
discussed this matter with the sponsor and explained our
position, which I believe he understands, and with the
inadequate wording in the bill, perhaps we could delay
this legislation to give our program a chance to work.

Sincerely,

/s/ Young D. Hance

Secretary

House Bill No. 1078 — Tests Required for Sale of Horses

AN ACT concerning

Sale of Horses

FOR the purpose of requiring a certificate stating that a
certain test has been given to any horse or other
equine offered for sale in this State; providing
that this certificate shall contain certain
information; and relating generally to sale of
horses and other equines in Maryland.

May 15, 1975.
Honorable John Hanson Briscoe
Speaker of the House of Delegates
State House
Annapolis, Maryland

Dear Mr. Speaker:

In accordance with Article II, Section 17 of the