Unless you can find a listing for the fixture to be permanently connected it is not allowed for that use.

Cords are not allowed to be spliced unless they are very large conductors (like #10 size).

Cordage is also not usually listed for permanent use.

Thanks for the reply. So if I made a switchable outlet and plugged into that, it would be kosher?

And - there is a GE direct wire junction box #24772 that says it is "for direct wiring GE's linkable fixtures into an existing electrical circuit".

But as far as I can tell, all of their linkable flourescent lamps are plug-ins. So I don't know if that would do the trick.

Here is a link that might be useful: GE Junction Box

" So if I made a switchable outlet and plugged into that, it would be kosher?"

That is your best bet, I think, if you want to stay with this fixture.