Earthquake shows how government regulation saves lives

Kudos to the Los Angeles Times for finding the news in yesterday's earthquake here in Southern California.

After the quake, my son's piano teacher joked that news crews would be showing pictures of fallen cans and bottles in grocery stores, since that was the bulk of the damage done by the quake. And sure enough, that's what we got.

But the Times found another angle, too, one well worth remembering:

The earthquake that rattled Southern California on Tuesday might have caused devastation if it had taken place in some parts of the world, but relatively strict building codes ensured that most of the region's infrastructure -- homes, schools, freeways and rail systems -- rolled with the magnitude 5.4 punch, which was centered near Chino Hills and felt as far as Las Vegas.

Why was yesterday's earthquake, ultimately, not much of a story? Because of government regulation.

That's right -- regulation: the boogeyman of so many right-wing politicians, radio talk show hosts and newspaper columnists. Government regulations were why parents weren't mourning the loss of children yesterday. And why roads were clear and utilities functioning. Regulations were why businesses remained open -- to sell bottled water, first-aid kits and other emergency supplies to thousands of Californians who, um, suddenly felt the need to stock up.

Libertarians and conservatives attack regulations as impeding consumer choice. But if a builder "chooses" to put a cheap, flimsy office building, many others pay a price (perhaps the ultimate one), including tenants, customers and neighbors, not to mention their family and friends.

Even if a builder wants to put up a structure that would withstands a major quake, without government building codes he or she might not have access to information about adequate construction techniques. Government regulation provides those standards.

Builders who want those standards, and people who do not wish to endure the death and devastation that results from not following them, over the years have come together, collectively, through the process of government, to support regulation. California's tough building codes came through for them yesterday.

Government regulation saves lives. It protects and enables economic growth. Remember that lesson from yesterday's quake next time someone badmouths all those regulations that government is making people follow.

Robert Niles also can be found at http://www.themeparkinsider.com