I think this is a good move. I've been involved in one crash and had another very close call on the drag strip. When going through the finish line at over 140mph and having a car just miss clipping my rear end made me realize that i was very lucky. I was a couple of feet away from most likely barrel rolling a 6000lb truck at over 140mph, I'd likely be dead or royally screwed up for life. I understand that racing is not a safe sport and i accept that. I also agree with rule changes that will help the safety of everyone involved.
We over built the roll cage in Max'd Out using 2" bars throughout. Now that we are all over 150mph and some way faster, the current 8.5 cert's are in no way safe at 6000lbs IMO. I believe the diesel racing organizations and racers have been very lucky that no one has been hurt. I think this rule will help, as having a crash at 120mph is way different than 150+mph.
Also i think this will help have more racers in the field as it matches the Outlaw races as far as 1/8 mile. Now trucks that have gearing setup for the 1/8 and race the outlaw series, maybe will cross over to NHRDA. Also less breakage and less down time for track clean up.
I do race quite a bit 1/8 mile in my gas cars throughout the year. It may not be as fun for the spectators but it still is a blast for the driver. I recommend trying it before condemning the 1/8 mile.