Per the BSA’s Guide to Advancement:
That means that Leaders and Merit Badge Counselors are not permitted to add to, modify, or remove from the approved list of merit badge or rank requirements as published by the BSA. Some limited exceptions are permitted for Scouts with special needs.
REMEMBER: Advancement requirements must be passed as written. For example, if a requirement uses words like “show,” “demonstrate,” or “discuss,” then the leader / counselor should expect that the Scout show, demonstrate or discuss the requirement and would be appropriate if they rejected a completed worksheet as proof that the requirement had been completed. (Guide to Advancement 4.2.0.1)
Scouts should immediately inform the Scoutmaster, Troop Committee, or Council representative if leader or Merit Badge counselor takes any action that conflicts with the Guide to Advancement.
