In California he can leagaly do electrical work for the time being.... (Not that I approve of that either...) So long as the AHJ is OK with it. But it sounds as if the AHJ does care too much for T-24, or just not inspected?
Many of these boxed out T-12 type set-ups in kitchens had big diffussers on them. You're not putting the fixtures "enclosed" in that are you? If you are go back and tear it out! If not, and the regular trim is installed normally, the heat will dissapate out of the trim opening, and be protected by thermal contacts in the fixture. The fixtue will also have insuctions for insulation and free air above the fixtue if required.
Either way, T-24 is going to be trouble if you dont know the intricacies of it. You still have follow codes as a GC too.
