There may seem to be many arbitrary numbers used by the NFPA, and some of the numbers may in fact be arbitrary. I can't answer for the NFPA. I will say that 60 Minutes can skew a story to make it look any "way" they want it to. IMHO any time you watch a news story or any story for that matter, you are getting a distorted view. The old saying holds true. "Perception is life's cruelest form of reality." So, I will be careful in the position that I take in this matter, and I'll reserve any judgement until all the facts are on the table. I will also add that the NFPA is made up of imperfect human beings, and as a result, the NFPA is an imperfect organization.
Lastly, a resounding AMEN to Rowdy for the following:
Could we do without the NEC? NO!
I agree with you 100%.
From behind the pulpit,
Doc