Correct, but I think that they started policing it this year, where they comb over your entire travel history and upcoming travel to see what other exceptions have been booked, and then notate your PNR with their discoveries. Even when they are misinterpreting the rules, they add lengthy notes so that other agents are disinclined to help.

There's very little value left in the GS program at this point. AA EXP has better service in many cases.