I've talked to Rick a few times about this stuff at Expo. I believe PPS has proper licenses - for B&W logos, art and other B&W property. There are legal reasons to actively monitor and protect those things included under the license - which is why you see C&D letters - its a part of keeping your rights under the license contract. The licensee has to show "active" defense, which means doing something to alert anyone who is using those licensed items. The contract also probably leaves discretion to PPS as to what reproduction for a home user, who has the game, but doesn't intend to manufacture for others - is that one for you, and help a few friends who also have the game and need a decal or other home brew part or art. So the line to cross of home use v. commercial use of license, is probably fuzzy.

I was not talking about the contract wording, but what case law would prescribe if you went to court over it.
The topic has come up at work, and that's the opinion of my lawyers. YMMV

I understand the sentiment behind posts that say licenses should be free (or ignored) and not require permission from the license holders, but that's wishful thinking, not reality.

PPS holds the license - plenty of C&D letters and subsequent vendor agreements worked out a deal with Rick @ PPS show that makers agree PPS should get paid. You may not like the license holder personally, or like paying more $ for a part, but it doesn't change the fact a fee is payable for licensed merchandise.

I don't like private disputes in a public forum. Personal attacks, incomplete facts, gossip and uninformed debates are bad for everyone.