As I understand the new rule/listing, you can cut it at the 18" interval but you can't assemble your own cord and plug. It isn't really rocket science to assemble the Duralight product but I guess U/L doesn't trust homeowners to do it. It is certainly not more complicated than putting on a cord cap or lamp holder.
I have a bunch of this stuff at my house and it is pretty good for dropping in crown or up under toe kicks. Just don't expect to ever see that "25,000" hours they brag about. That must be when the last segment burns out.
