The issue seems to be moot ... that is, the answer is already determined.

As Joe states, the 2008 NEC will likely greatly expand AFCI requirements. We wonk "KNOW" for sure until the code is actually published.

I am not aware of the NEC adding any deferred date, as they did in the '99 code. The requirement will become part of the NEC when published.

Yet, the NEC is not 'law' until it is adopted by your local jurisdiction. There are many places still operating under the 1976 NEC, or that have their own code, or that amend the NEC. So the AFCI requirements are not a 'slam dunk' by any means.

Even were the AFCI requirements adopted, they cannot be applied to plans already approved ..... so many places will be completed next year for which the AFCI requirement would not apply.