As far as the AFCI debate is concerned... it has been my observation that many places have either failed to adopt any AFCI requirements, or have added exceptions.
In the field, I am finding many new homes with only receptacles on the AFCI's, and not the lights (as required by both NEC and local code).
The NEC, or any code, is of value only as far as it is respected. Make enough bad calls, and respect goes away. It seems that the AFCI mania has greatly undermined the respect we have for the NEC.
