This new policy that you have to be in the Consulate specified has been just effecitve in 15th March, 2008. Before, you could easily apply for the pass via post and any travel agents.
I have to travel 1000 miles to Houston for the pass, with at least two days and about $800.
You may know that I just got the US passports for my Kids via US post office here, costing $50. Very easy.
This year 2008 is Olympic year. The kids want to see China and have been longing for many years.
Why this change was made for ABC with parents having Chinese passports?