As I continue the commentary from my previous blog, I want to recap a little of my previous discussion:

Many people wonder why the government who claims to be “hands off” tends to put their hands in a variety of different affairs around the country.  Much of the reason for their intrusion is actually to protect people.  The government often intrudes in the roofing industry to ensure that we are all better off…..Well, let’s say “Safer.”  Would less government intervention leave us worse off?

Regulations

The government often regulates in the roofing industry to ensure that everything is built properly and safer.  If there are no regulations in place, there might be a chance that one could end up with a roof that endangers someone’s safety.  Thanks to regulations from the government, there are standards that contractors have to follow when they build and repair roofs.  These standards protect building owners and will inevitably promote good building practices.  More information on standards and codes for the roofing industry are available on line.  Google “ICC building standards,” and follow the links for standards on construction, materials and codes used in building.

Part 2 discusses the effects of The California Air Resources Board on our environment and livelihood.

CARB

The California Air Resources Board or CARB, is the government agency overseeing regulations to control the air quality in our fine state.  The Air Resources Board (Board) consists of 11 members appointed by the Governor with the consent of the Senate. All members serve “at the pleasure” of the Governor. The Board members serve part time, the Chairperson, serves full time.

How does CARB affect the roofing/construction industry?  Certain chemicals are placed on a “hit list” for elimination or control and any products manufactured with these chemicals may not be shipped into the state or sold.  Through mandate, those in the construction industry are forced to find and use alternate waterproofing/coating products while the current effective products are incrementally eliminated under CARB regulation.

As Construction professionals, this begs a question:  How much impact do construction related materials pose to air quality versus other sources of pollution like Auto/Diesel emissions, Manufacturing, Refining operations, and others?  I have never seen or heard a statistic on the subject.  Through their regulation, CARB restricts the sale or use of effective, safe, time tested products in the state of California.  Is the CARB compassionately seeking a balance between responsible air quality management and the devastating impact of their mandates on the marketplace?

CARB does present some self serving information on the subject of air quality, and I do believe California made great strides in managing air pollution levels since the 1960’s and 70’s.  Here are a couple resources from the CARB website: http://www.arb.ca.gov/knowzone/history.htm

This video includes some pertinent information and unfortunately, a propaganda clip about Global Warming: http://www.arb.ca.gov/videos/uaqtp/101.wmv

As one looks at the economy in California, the devastating effects of over taxation and regulation are bringing small business to it’s proverbial knees.  What is the cost of CARB regulation to working families and legitimate business in the State of California?  Are there real, quantifiable and tangible benefits?  Who oversees CARB and their computer model mandates when they incrementally eliminate jobs and income for families?  Is it time to scale back the scope and legislative reach of this agency?

Have you ever seen the payroll of CARB? See the pay of these and any other state employees at:   http://www.KillCARB.org

To close out Part 2, let’s revisit the initial premise of this blog:  Many people wonder why the government who claims to be “hands off” tend to put their hands in a variety of different affairs around the country, especially in the state of California.   As I travel the Southwestern US, I meet many roofing/construction professionals who talk to me about the alleged corruption and self-propagating aspects of government regulation.  Does the government continue to overreach its usefulness and betray the public trust? Interesting question to ponder.

I, for one am taking action. Will you?  As a voter, it is our responsibility to, “Regulate the Regulators.”  Be sure to exercise your right by voting for candidates and propositions that are pro business or at the least, less intrusive on companies to serve their customers without the government picking their pocket at every turn through pointless regulation.  I imagine most Californians and many other Americans throughout our great country will be voting their pocketbook this coming election cycle, do your part.

I welcome any comments or questions so feel free to visit my Fanpage at www.Facebook.com/TheRoofinghub

All the best,

Tony

PS – My 4 Sealant Horror Stories are coming to www.Facebook.com/TheRoofinghub

Enjoy these real stories about how sealant mistakes can cost you a pile of money when you don’t have the right information.

PSS: Find thousands of unbiased ratings on services for Roofing, home improvements, car repairs, and more. Try Angie’s List.