Chronic Wasting Disease Research and Response Act of 2002

This bill would establish a national research and response program to combat Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a contagious neurological illness affecting deer and elk. The legislation directs federal agencies to provide technical and financial support to states for monitoring the disease, developing non-lethal testing methods, and creating safe disposal protocols for infected carcasses. For the public, the bill focuses on protecting wildlife health and providing hunters and outdoor enthusiasts with better education and outreach regarding the spread and management of the disease.