I'm typing this from the Ft. Lauderdale, FL home inspector/mold licensing meeting.

[Nick Gromicko]

I just spoke and hammered home the point that the U.S. Department of Education (which oversees a few classrooms BTW), released the results of their 12 year study in a 93-page report that basically says online education is better than classroom education.

http://www.nachi.org/online-beats-classroom.htm

[Nick Gromicko]

Department just admitted that unless there is an amendment to the law, department rule making will not change the 120-hour course requirement. Everyone will need 120 hours. Everyone.

[Nick Gromicko]

Jay Schwartz hammering mini-Minneapolis association again as being the only 1 of 4 of the associations in Florida (ASHI, FABI, InterNACHI, mini-Minneaopolis association), that actively lobbied to permit contractors to offer inspections via the "prior to closing" language.

You can't see it unless you were here, but all 3 department reps were nodding their heads as if they know that is a repair they have to make.

That is good news.

[Greg Bell]

Nice job Jay!!!

[Nick Gromicko]

Department now explaining that although there is a good moral character clause in the law, there isn't specifically a background check, and that they know that might have to be repaired.

[Nick Gromicko]

An inspector now explaining that everything should be done online because he can't afford to keep driving to Jacksonville for courses and exams.

[Greg Bell]

It is nice hearing all of the comments from the department. We didn't get that yesterday in Orlando.

[Nick Gromicko]

Jeff Hooper, President of FABI supporting InterNACHI's position by saying that as a GC he takes much of his courses online.

[Nick Gromicko]

Jeff Hooper just testified "the only way to get certain specific training is online."

[Nick Gromicko]

A Dr. somebody speaking now and saying that a proctored exam can only be a broad exam, but in contrast online exams are superior because they can be advanced.

It's turning into an InterNACHI promotional event.

[Nick Gromicko]

Engineer explaining that he enjoys all the advanced education at InterNACHI. He says he also has a handicapped child and enjoys being able to study at night.

Jay Schwartz waiting behind him in line.

[Nick Gromicko]

Jay Schwartz reminding department that we can proctor any quiz or exam at the community colleges if the department insists on it.

[Nick Gromicko]

Jay Schwartz saying education materials are too expensive. Some books are $100. InterNACHI has all the text downloadable online for free.

[Greg Bell]

The test could be Proctored in Florida through the local chapters, for licensing purposes. Each chapter president could certify the process.

FABI now proctors their exam at the office or the quarterly events.

[Steve Taylor]

Did Hooper address new construction inspections?