VETO MESSAGE ON SB 6400-S2

                   March 24, 2000

To the Honorable President and Members,

  The Senate of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

     I am returning herewith, without my approval as to section 29, Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill No. 6400 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to domestic violence;"

     This bill improves and clarifies our laws dealing with domestic violence in numerous ways, without imposing costs on state or local government.  However, section 29 would make the entire bill "null and void" unless referenced and funded in the budget.  Because the bill imposes no costs and requires no funding or reference in the budget, I have vetoed section 29.

     For these reasons, I have vetoed section 29 of Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill No. 6400.

     With the exception of section 29, Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill No. 6400 is approved.

                   Respectfully submitted,

                   Gary Locke

                   Governor