I would probably have gotten ticked off as well if the screener started quoting nonexistant federal law, and the OP did have a long layover, so I'm not going to fault him for elevating the issue.

Of course, I'm still trying to figure out how a seasoned traveler ended up outside security whilst trying to get to Concourse T. There are signs, there are people to ask, and surely you recognize the point where you're exiting the secure area (so that you can stop and turn around before exiting).