I'm a long time user of irssi and an irc oper. I started using emacs about
3 years ago, but I couldn't use erc because it was lacking functionality in
regards to supporting user modes beyond op and voice (+o, +v). So, after
googling the issue and finding nothing of real value, I decided to add it
myself, and finally make the switch to erc. I have working code to add this
feature, but I'm curious of any suggestions you may have. Is there any
plans to add this feature in the future, and If so, what would be the
requirements, and process of contributing to the project.

Thanks