Feds' historical preservation rules desperately need an update

Every year, 120,000 federal agency actions, $8.8 billion in private renovation spending and tens of thousands of construction projects across America hinge on the interpretation of just 17 sentences, last updated almost 30 years ago. 

These sentences are the secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, and they govern how virtually all historic preservation projects are designed and carried out. 

At their best, these standards help preserve the historic buildings...