The answer is YES, the person taking the handoff may throw it. He can even throw it back to the QB who may throw it forward at that point.
SECTION 10. PASSING REGULATIONS
Passing
Article 1. a. There can be only one forward pass per play. There can be only two (2) exchanges of the football in the air (forward pass or lateral) which are initiated from behind the L.O.S. After the 2nd exchange of the football in the air, if completed behind the L.O.S., the football must be run across the L.O.S. A forward pass is definedas a live ball thrown toward the opponent’s goal line.
b. A completed direct handoff, even if bobbled, shall not be considered an exchange of the football in the air.
As stated earlier handoffs are not considered to be an exchange of the ball. There are several teams in Houston that utilize this method. At tourneys, its probably in your best interest to mention the rule to the officials prior to the game.
I think if the rule would state a direct handoff regardless if the persion taking the handoff is in front or back of you would clear it up. I think when rookie refs sees handoff in front it throws them off.