For 32 rules, we work as one, but legally we must make our own decisions on clubs and balls independently and unilaterally. This process, we hope, will be the initial steps toward a more uniform worldwide standard for spring-like effect that would help alleviate today's confusion whether some clubs conform in one jurisdiction and not in another. If someone wants to nudge his ball to a better lie, disregard penalties or use non-conforming equipment, he cannot be tossed in jail. He won't be able to play in competitions conducted under the rules and he cannot post his scores for handicap purposes. And his peers may find such actions unacceptable, because the rules also extend to casual play, meaning he may have difficulty finding a game.
Golf pays more than lip service to being a game of honor.
I can't think of another sport where the players are expected to call penalties on themselves. In the end, golfers will have to decide how important golf's rules, including equipment standards, are to the game they play.