HARRY HUGHES, Governor                                     4121

that I sign this legislation because of the fiscal hardship on
political subdivisions arising from payment of criminal court
costs. Clearly may Administration and this General Assembly have
accepted and fulfilled the difficult task of increasing State
support to local governments at a time when federal reductions in
responsibility and financial assistance have created a fiscal
burden for both State and local governments. The figures in this
area are uncontrovertible. During Fiscal Year 1984, direct
assistance to subdivisions will amount to $1.2 billion; payments
in behalf of local governments equal $520 million; and State
costs for functions previously funded by local governments exceed
$219 million. Together, over $1.7 billion will flow to local
governments from the State during the course of this fiscal year.
Ameliorating the fiscal condition of counties should not come at
the expense of undermining the ability of the Clerks to provide
quality services to the public.

For these reasons, I have vetoed House Bill 1421.

Sincerely,
Harry Hughes
Governor

House Bill No. 1421

AN ACT concerning

Criminal Proceedings - Court Costs

FOR the purpose of eliminating the requirement that the counties
and Baltimore City pay fees and court costs in certain
criminal proceedings; providing that defendants found not
guilty are not required to pay court costs or fees in
certain criminal proceedings; requiring the State to release
liability for payment of certain criminal court costs,
requiring the State to reimburse certain costs attributable
to criminal court proceedings; and generally relating to
payment of costs and fees in criminal proceedings.

BY repealing

Article 38 - Fines and Forfeitures

Section 4A

Annotated Code of Maryland

(1982 Replacement Volume and 1983 Supplement)

BY adding to