Journal: Can a computer manufacturer force me to purchase an os?

I spent about 30 minutes this evening talking to some nice folks over at a major laptop manufacturer down in Texas. I want to purchase a Vostro 1510 with no operating system. They informed me this was not possible and that if I wanted the computer I had to buy the OS too. Is this true? I have read where Microsoft is compelled to offer a refund for the OS if you don't want it. Is this true? If so how big a hassle is it?