The industry is such that it can absorb such inattention for a period of time.
PJ2 is spot on with this. We are basically riding on the back of decades of hard work and it will take a while to become obvious that something has gone wrong. It is very obvious to us as airline pilots but that is because we understand what makes up flight safety, those creating the legislation may grasp some basic principals but they don't have an innate understanding of it like we do. We are the canaries in the mine in that we are the first to sense it.
IMO working a roster that gives plenty of free time is critical to flight safety and having to work two jobs is just downright dangerous. As a personal example; when I am flying 50 hours a month I am enthusiastic about each work day. Before the shift I will enjoy the opportunity to order a coffee, review the routes, muse over latest NOTAMS, review some system notes, check my company email for operational notices etc etc. I enjoy it and feel a sense of satisfaction because I am well prepared. When I am working nearly 100 hours a month I do little of that. All my spare time seems to be spent sleeping or catching up on household chores, personal paperwork and if I'm lucky a catch up with friends for a coffee. There is no doubt in my mind that I am much more efficient and safe when flying the lighter roster.
Where exactly is the line in the sand when the reduction in flight safety becomes unacceptable? 60hrs? 75 hours? Who knows because every individual is different. One thing though is obvious to me, we have crossed that line.