Regulations and licensing vary from state to state contributing to the wide range of senior housing models considered Assisted Living. Most providers and their staff have special training required by either state regulation or company policy. Some states require special staff certifications and training. Facilities must comply with local building codes and fire safety regulations. The Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) believes the most successful regulations are consumer driven, balancing the safety concerns we all share with the consumers’ desire to retain their independence and freedom of choice.