So, I tried this on a "vanilla" install of MODX and it works fine. Everything is constrained how it should be. I'm going to have to assume that there are overlapping permissions as you suggested.
I went through and basically started over and got it working although my customization sets are identical to the previous sets so far as I can see. I've always felt the form customization system to be a little "quirky" seeing as they are (as I understand it) javascript based, and simply modify the DOM after it's fully loaded. I've never really much cared for that approach. I think I just got a little bit out of hand with FC's and probably should have created a CMP instead.
Lesson Learned: Don't use to many form customizations...they get messed up.
Thank you very much for taking the time to chat with me about this! Half the time I just need the confidence boost and need to hear it from someone who actually knows what they are doing!
Have a great day!
-Jared