Never one to beat a dead horse, but I did write to Illinois' Gov. Edgar,
and I finally got a reply, whic I here share with you:
====================================
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: Granite City
>From: "Governor" <[log in to unmask]>
>Date: 29 Oct 1997 16:26:16 GMT
>Dear Ms. Clarke:
>Thank you for your e-mail message to Governor Jim Edgar regarding Rick
>Robbins' inhumane care of ferrets.  The Governor reviewed your message and
>requested that I respond.
>
>Under current law, the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) enforces
>the Humane Care for Animals Act and the Illinois Department of Natural
>Resources (IDNR) issues the permits for game breeders.  IDOA can confiscate
>animals when the Humane Care for Animals Act is violated, but IDOA cannot
>revoke the breeders' permit.  Permits can only be revoked by IDNR under the
>Wildlife Code.  Inhumane treatment of animals is not spelled out
>specifically as cause for revocation under the code.  Unfortunately, there
>has to be a change in statute to correct this problem.  I strongly advise
>that you urge your local legislators to propose legislation to change this
>language to revoke a breeders' permit automatically should the Humane Care
>for Animals Act be violated.
>
>If you would like to receive a copy of the letter from Dr. David R.
>Bromwell, Illinois Department of Agriculture, giving an update on the
>current situation, please forward your mailing address to Governor Edgar.
>
>Again, thank you for taking the time to send Governor Edgar a message.  If
>you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
>
>                           Sincerely,
>
>                             //s//
>                           Erica S. Mair
>                           Assistant to the Governor
>                           for Natural and Cultural Resources
[Posted in FML issue 2113]