Witness intimidation legislation shaping up

After two years of opposition by a powerful Democratic lawmaker, Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr.'s proposal to combat witness intimidation will likely pass a House committee in the waning days of the General Assembly session.

But Mr. Ehrlich's aides still are suspicious that Democrats are trying to sabotage one of the administration's priorities.

House Speaker Michael E. Busch, D-Annapolis, met with House Judiciary Committee Chairman Joseph F. Vallario Jr., D-Prince George's, for about 30 minutes yesterday to discuss the governor's proposal. After the two emerged, Mr. Vallario indicated he would support a compromise for the first...