The problem is you just don't know where it comes from. Did the DE tell you this or did you make the mistake of asking the FSDO first? I've never heard of it, although I admit I'm not always privy to these things. I'd contact (directly) an examiner in another jurisdiction and see what is said. If he / she's never heard of the policy then there's your answer - and a pretty good place to go for your reinstatement.

If true, bizarre - control freaks with too much time on their hands.