It's required by the National Electrical Code, which all 50 states have adopted. It is to keep homeowners from stringing extension cords across aisles when using a blender or crockpot or electric can opener. Small appliances have short cords and could not reach a plug under a 12" overhang unless dangerously close to the edge, ready to topple off that crockpot of pumpkin spice latte onto your dog. Islands should always be designed with the building codes in mind from the beginning rather than as a reaction after they are completed and red tagged.
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