Code Changes
Self-Serving
To the Editor:
After reading your recent article
"After the Storm" (8/93), I have a
word of caution. Beware when any
building code agency begins to write
new codes after a major loss event.
Building code development agencies
are run exclusively by building code
enforcement officials (no one else
votes). The temptation to take
advantage of the situation to enact
self-serving code changes is always
there, and seldom is the temptation
denied.
Based on my nine years of experience
as a code enforcement officer,
followed by service on major building
code change committees, I have all
too often seen the code outcome of
what is known as "panic legislation."
The tragedy of the moment, coupled
with a public outcry for