FWIW...The pass rate for the first run of the 16hr SE exam is 27%
http://www.ncees.org/Exams/SE_exam.php
I think it's safe to say that the new SE exam isn't watered down and safe to use in CA, WA, OR, HI, IL, etc...
Also I wish to bid most of you (PMR06, Teguci, a2mfk, and others) an AMEN for...