Why does 'ssh' and 'scp' work to one and not another? SOLVED

[joe at actionline.com]

.
>> I have tried changing the passwords, but the system will
>> not allow me to do so.
> ----
> because 'user' has to satisfy 'rules' for passwords but root does not.
>
> if you...
>
> sudo 'su -'
>
> and then type
>
> passwd joe
>
> you can enter anything you want for a password and not have to satisfy
> rules.

That has apparently solved the problem.
I'll do further checking to be sure and will report back.

Thank you.