ACEIZE

Starting August 11, 2007 it will be illegal to possess a solution containing over 2.2% Iodine in the United States of America. Iodine will be a regulated chemical subject to tracking, approvals, import and export regulations. Certain exemptions to this rule have been granted by the government. It is be legal to possess 1 fluid ounce of Lugol's solution. Additionally "Persons handling regulated iodine materials are required to register with DEA, are subject to the import/export notification requirements of the CSA, and are required to maintain records of all regulated transactions involving iodine regardless of size." Farmers who regularly use up to 7% iodine solution for their livestock will fall under this monitoring and regulation, as will any manufacturing facilities. Amateur chemists will likely be unable to obtain Iodine legally (unless the are very familiar with US paper work procedures).

In the world of government doublespeak this is called 'regulation, monitoring, tracking and controlling' rather than an outright ban. However, I think it is worth noting that any behavior in which the default penalty is prison, is considered an illegal activity. For instance the default behavior in this case is possession of an iodine solution above 2.2%. This is illegal. You may, however, obtain permits for such possession which makes the activity legal as long as you adhere to the limits of the regulation. An analogy in point, It is currently legal to possess marijuana if you possess the proper permits.

What effect will government regulation have on scientific progress? Remember, this particular regular required no act of congress. Will a small manufacturer and researcher in the United States be able to develop a solar panel technology that requires Iodide Electrolyte?