When the requirements were revised in the past, Scouts had a "deadline" to complete a rank under the previous requirements. If the Scout wasn't done by that date, he also had to complete the new requirements to earn that rank. I can't find the source of this information, but it seemed to be clearly stated in the past.
This is the most current information I have been able to find that addresses the changes taking effect in 2010:
http://usscouts.org/advance/changes/advchanges10.aspScouts working toward ranks in 2009 may use the new requirements, or may continue to use the old requirements, at their option. If a Scout has started work toward a rank before January 1, 2010, using requirements that were current before January 1, 2010, he may complete that rank only using the old requirements. Any progress toward a rank that is begun after January 1, 2010, must use the requirements as they are presented in the Boy Scout Handbook (34622) or in Boy Scout Requirements book (33216).
For example, does this mean that if he started working in 2009 toward First Class and has at least one First Class requirement signed off, that he never has to complete the 2010 new requirements (LNT & 4 examples)? Of course we want the Scouts to be the best they can, but where is the line drawn? Do I need to be sure every young Scout has the updated requirements in his Handbook? (I'm the Advancement Chair.)
Thanks for your help!