I think they were trying to prohibit "bendable" power strips like this one -- https://www.amazon.com/Quirky-Pivot-Outlet-Flexible-Protector/dp/B004ZP74UA

Awesome. Thanks for your response. Yes, all the other potential issues are ruled out so it must be the surge protector circuit. These things are a humongous pain to take apart. I took the first one apart to look at the components but ended up giving up bc there were so many tiny clips and things inside to provide the movement. (See link)

I might open the other one up and post photos just for curiosity to see if it can be resolved. I’m actually beginning an apprenticeship at an electronics repair shop so maybe this is a good learning step.

Quirky Pivot Power 6 Outlet Flexible Surge Protector Power Strip (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004ZP74UA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GRQA8X5PYE9NJ2T2SFKT