Update on the other laptop, the older Dell. Turns out that the timing was entirely coincidental. The system fan apparently failed approximately the same time as the update that I was questioning that caused me to have TLP issues. So it was causing all kinds of weirdness, like the USB, network, wifi, etc.. all turning off. I ordered him a $9.36 fan replacement and I'll get that installed for him when it arrives in a few weeks. That should fix it, barring any potential permanent damage.
I appreciate everyone's help!