I would say that is part of the smog equipment, toyota and this part of intake sorta suck if you ask me.  It meters air based on inputs including the mass air flow.  Will a smog guy actually take that apart to make sure it is not blocked off, I would like to think as long as emissions are good and timing you would be good.  After thinking hope you didn't think I was being a smart ass, if so sorry about that.  Always considered that entire assembly the volume air mass meter.