3 feet Line

[wanja]

I'm using the NFHS 08/09 part 2 test as a practice exam for a new official class. 2 of the questions are

9. A restraining line may be used as a boundary line when space is limited, and may extend the entire length or width of the court.

68. If a thrower-in does not have a minimum of 3 feet of unobstructed space. The administering official shall impose an imaginary restraining line.

The rule references are:
1-2-2 If on an unofficial court, there is less than 3 feet of unobstructed space outside any sideline or end line a narrow broken line shall be marked ...

7-6-4 note The thrower shall have a minimum of 3 feet horizontally as in 1-2-2. If the court is not marked accordingly, an imaginary restraining line shall be imposed by the administering official.


I don't like question 9 or the related rule. I have a no answer since the question says may and the rule says shall. However, I can't imagine literally applying the rule to stop a game. Furthermore, the 7-6-4 note assumes that the game would not be stopped and the official would use an imaginary line.

Just me griping about a ridiculously written rule that I may need to explain to the practice test takers.