Just heard from Rep Brad Jones on the Hot Line that the Ferret Bill has
passed the Senate tonight, will be printed up and 'embossed', and be on the
Governor's desk by midnight tomorrow night.  WE CAN HARDLY BELIEVE IT!!!!!!!
 
House Bill #295 will allow the following in Mass:
 
1. Possession of a ferret
    a. As a household pet provided that it has been neutered or spayed at
       the time of purchase, and has received distemper and rabies shots.
    b. For breeding, after the attainment of a license for an annual fee to
       be determined but not LESS than one thousand dollars.
    c. For research by a recognized institution.
    d. For education by a recognized institution.
2. Hunting with a ferret is not legal.
3. Releasing or allowing a ferret to escape into the wild is not legal.
4. Ferrets shall not be sold in a pet shops.
 
    Thanks VERY VERY much to the huge number of people who made all of the
many many calls, and carried and signed all of the petitions that made this
possible.  Thanks to all of the many people from California and on and off
of the FML who provided so very much support and guidance.  It was great.
 
    Mass Friends of the Domestic Ferret Group will have a booth at the
Boston Pet Expo this coming weekend at the Bayside Exposition Center.  Come
by, say hello and help us plan for the future !!!!!!!!!!
 
                                                - Bill Williamson
 
P.S. Hot line: (617) 224-1098
[Posted in FML issue 1379]