7th December 2005 updated 22nd June 2006

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the US has proposed new federal regulation regarding the testing of chemicals and pesticides on human subjects (i).

 
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Philip Booth, a Gloucestershire Green party spokesperson said: "You have to ask what kind of people draft a law like this? Experimenting on children is wrong. I have already written to the EPA and would urge others to also make their views known. Consultation finishes on 12th December so please act now (via the website noted below)."

On August 2, 2005, Congress had mandated the EPA create a rule that permanently bans chemical testing on pregnant women and children. But Greens argue the EPA's newly proposed rule, misleadingly titled "Protections for Subjects in Human Research," puts industry profits ahead of children's welfare. The rule allows for government and industry scientists to treat children as human guinea pigs in chemical experiments in the following situations:

1.    Children who "cannot be reasonably consulted," such as those that have learning difficulties 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.
2.    Parental consent forms are not necessary for testing on children who have been neglected or abused.
3.    Chemical studies on any children outside of the U.S. are acceptable.

Notes:

(i) More information from the Organic Consumers Association:
http://www.organicconsumers.org/epa6.cfm