Coinbase is notorious for changing their rules when they want to if they want a user of their service to conform to their affiliates. It is a shame, they have a good service and exchange but they don't know what is driving the bitcoin movement at the moment.
They are just complying to certain regulations in order for them to continue their service to the masses. If they don't comply to the regulations, they could easily be shut down by the feds. Rules are rules and regulations are regulations. You can't do much about it; you need to comply in order for your business or account remain existing.
