Court: Easton schools can't ban 'boobies' bracelets

PHILADELPHIA - August 5, 2013 (WPVI) -- A federal appeals court won't let a Pennsylvania school district ban "I (heart) Boobies!" bracelets.

In a novel case involving student free speech, the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has rejected claims that the slogan is lewd and disruptive.

The bracelets are designed to promote breast cancer awareness among young people. The court says the bracelets involve a relevant social issue, and are not likely to cause in-school disruptions.

The split ruling Monday is a victory for two Easton Area School District girls who challenged the rule with help from the American Civil Liberties Union.

ACLU lawyer Mary Catherine Roper says the ruling supports the rights of students to discuss important topics.

A lawyer for the district says he cannot immediately comment.

The ruling upholds a lower court decision.

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