I can't believe it isn't standard practice to make the walk up to the podium prior to departure. At UAL, an agent would never try to close 20 early and leave non-revs like that(well, not more than once). I'd love to see one try to refuse a jumpseater at 20 prior. Captain determines when the door closes and when we push. Agents have to walk into the cockpit and ask before closing the main cabin door.