Last week the Maryland General Assembly voted to override five bills that were vetoed by Governor Larry Hogan after the 2019 Session, including a measure that prohibits employers from asking prospective employees about any criminal history on job applications.  I supported Governor Hogan's vetoes.   Below are the vetoed bills that highlights the challenges a Republican governor faces in a Democrat-controlled legislature.

HB994 "Ban the Box"

This bill makes it  illegal for employers to ask about an applicant's criminal history before the first interview, specifically prohibiting the question to be included on an employment application (a check-off box) .

HB262 Expanding Dreamers Act

This bill allows students who are not in the country legally but who attended high school in Maryland to apply directly to Maryland four-year institutions and still qualify for in-state tuition.  Previously, the students had to attend a community college before becoming eligible for in-state tuition at a four-year college or university.

HB1343 Handgun Permit Review Board - Repeal

This bill abolished the five-member Handgun Permit Review Board in favor of having such appeals handled by the Office of Administrative Hearings.  The Board reviewed appeals from individuals whose application for a concealed carry permit was denied by the Maryland State police.  The Governor termed this veto override a "politically motivated, ill-conceived power-grab."

HB891 State Personnel - Grievance Process

Allows additional circumstances for some categories of state employees to be heard before administrative judges, rather than going to an arbitrator (which will cost the employee half of what the arbitrator is paid).