In a highly controversial move the us Environmental Protection Agency (epa) has proposed to allow pesticide testing on orphans and mentally handicapped children.

The proposal is in response to a mandate by the us Congress asking the epa to permanently ban chemical testing on pregnant women and children. As per the proposed rule, chemicals can be tested on children who "cannot be reasonably consulted,' like mentally handicapped or orphaned newborns. Tests would be allowed with permission from the institution or guardian in charge of the child. A mentally handicapped child or infant orphan could be tested on without assent.

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