I see that the latest NEC revisions prescribe that AFCI breakers are to
be used not merely for bedroom circuits but for just about every living
space -- OK, I guess.

But I see that it is now a violation to have a duplex outlet on a
GFCI-protected circuit for a single prescribed appliance, e.g.,
refrigerator, sump pump; why on earth...? (Someone suggested --
humorously, I guess -- that it was to sell more outlets and to make more
[paid] work for electricians, who would then have to install additional
circuits and outlets.)

Perce