It might seem unlikely that Oklahomans would have a boon of science treasure anyone else would envy were not exactly known for holding the scientific arts in high esteem. (Cough. Snowballs on the Senate floor.)
But its true.
Tulsas The STEMcell Science Shop, which specializes in science, technology, engineering and math equipment, recently told Texans to stop asking the retailer to ship equipment across state lines. The shop posted a photo of an Erlenmeyer flask on its Facebook page along with this explanation:
Weve had some inquiries from Texans wanting to buy chemistry equipment. Thats great, but its illegal for us to sell to you if you dont have a permitted business! Texas has some very misguided and archaic drug enforcement laws (the permit application suggests filling out the form on a typewriter). Maybe they assume people wont make drugs if they dont have the finest laboratory-grade glassware available?
According to Texas state law, owning the flasks without a permit is illegal because theyre considered controlled substances.
The flasks arent the only equipment people cant send to unlicensed Texans. The STEMcell Science Shop also listed condensers; distilling apparatus; vacuum driers; distilling, Erlenmeyer, Florence, round bottom, filtering, one-, two-, and three-neck flasks; Büchner, filter, and separatory funnels; Soxhlet extractors; flask heaters; heating mantles; and adapter tubes (srsly!?!). Shop owners also provided links to Texas controlled substances code and business permit application and lists of members of the Texas Senate and House of Representatives.
Youre not setting up any sort of lab in Texas, so dont even try it, buddy.
Maybe this will work in our favor and give Oklahomas burgeoning amateur scientists and inventors a head start on innovation.
Wed also like to know if lab break-ins increase.