VETO MESSAGE ON HB 2310-S

                   March 28, 1996

To the Honorable Speaker and Members,

  The House of Representatives of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

     I am returning herewith, without my approval as to section 5, Substitute House Bill No. 2310 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to notification of nonrenewal of contracts for certificated employees;"

     Substitute House Bill No. 2310 contains an emergency clause in section 5.  The emergency clause was included in case the legislature failed to adopt a supplemental budget by May 15, 1996.  The supplemental budget was adopted on March 7th, leaving the emergency clause unnecessary.

     Although this legislation is important, it is not a matter necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions.  Preventing this bill from being subject to a referendum under Article II, section 1 (b) of the state Constitution unnecessarily denies the people of this state their power, at their own option, to approve or reject this bill at the polls.

     For these reasons, I have vetoed section 5 of Substitute House Bill No. 2310.

     With the exception of section 5, Substitute House Bill No. 2310 is approved.

                   Respectfully submitted,

                   Mike Lowry

                   Governor