EPA to allow Pesticide testing on Orphans & Mentally Disabled Children

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EPA to Allow Pesticide Testing on "Orphans & Mentally Disabled Children"

 

When I got this email on 11/23/05, I thought it had to be an urban legend... a myth and set about trying to debunk it. When I could not find any mention of it on urban legend sites, I went to the Environmental Protection Agency's web page and found it. It's true!

UNBELIEVABLE!!ACT NOW!!! Public Comment Period for this rule closes December 12, 2005

 

 

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is now accepting public comments on its newly proposed federal regulation regarding the testing of chemicals and pesticides on human subjects. Earlier this year, Congress had mandated the EPA create a rule that permanently bans chemical testing on pregnant women and children, but the EPA's newly proposed rule actually creates gaping loopholes for the chemical industry. The rule allows for government and industry scientists to treat children as human guinea pigs in chemical experiments in the following situations:

 

Children who "cannot be reasonably consulted," such as those that are mentally handicapped or orphaned newborns may be tested on. With permission from the institution or guardian in charge of the individual, the child may be exposed to chemicals for the sake of research.

Parental consent forms are not necessary for testing on children who have been neglected or abused.

Chemical studies on any children outside of the U.S. are acceptable.

You can learn more and take action at the Organic Consumers Association.

You can see a copy of the proposed rule on the EPA website.

ACT NOW