BILL NUMBER:  SB 399
  VETOED	DATE: 10/01/2013




To the Members of the California State Senate:

I am returning Senate Bill 399 without my signature.

It is the policy of the state to provide for the timely payment of
every state contract ? whether the work is completed on a standard or
emergency basis.  For the rare occasion when timely payment does not
occur, current law provides specific safeguards.

Recognizing the distinct struggles faced by small businesses and
nonprofit organizations, increased safeguards are provided for these
entities, including a higher late payment penalty.  Extending the
higher penalty rate to all contracts in a narrowly defined category ?
regardless of the size of the contractor ? would be inconsistent
with the state's policy of reserving this additional protection for
those that need it most.

Sincerely



Edmund G. Brown Jr.