The fix with the emote bug I really really do suggest that you reconsider, it is extremely useful for us roleplayer's whom wish to add to their posts within local chat.
I use this constantly as it allows for me to create many paragraphs worth of descriptions without having to cut some of it off due to the name being in the way.

If I was going to create a paragraphs worth of a descriptions for my characters action and have it reach the chat limit, I continue it with the emote panel. Or if I wish to have an action that I don't want to have my characters name in front of (See Akrion's example) I would use the emote panel

I really do hope you take this into complete consideration before implementing that fix.