Official Answers

[Rick Durkee]

I am sorry for the long lead-in to my question.

It seems that a small number of situations have no specific rule(s) that apply, and we attempt reasonably apply a rule that applies to a similar situation. In other cases (like the in the "Closely Guarded?" thread) the rule(s) that most closely applies is ambiguous. The controversy on this message board (and a lot of other places) about sharing test answers is yet kind of situation that seems not to have a clear answer.

I really enjoy this message board. I think it is very valuable for me to consider the situations that others present, and to consider the opinions of a variety of experienced officials. I like it when I learn something new or affirm what I already now. I particularly appreciate the effort that posters make to cite rules and casebook sections. However, what I occasionally experience here is what I experience with my local board. A question is posed, people with a lot experience all insist that their answers are correct, even though they give two or more different answers. Ultimately, I don't know for sure what the "right" answer is.

How do we get official, authoritative answers to our questions?

Rick