VETO MESSAGE ON HB 1743

                   April 24, 1997

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 2, House Bill No. 1743 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to the long-term care ombudsman program;"

     House Bill No. 1743 requires the Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development to adopt rules for the state long-term care ombudsman program.  Section 2 of the bill is an emergency clause, implementing the bill immediately.

     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.

     For this reason, I have vetoed section 2 of House Bill No. 1743.

     With the exception of section 2, I am approving House Bill No. 1743.

                   Respectfully submitted,

                   Gary Locke

                   Governor