North Attleboro Teen Hopeful After 'Boobies' Bracelet Ruling

NORTH ATTLEBORO (CBS) - Several schools across the country banned them for being too vulgar. But, a federal judge in Pennsylvania has now ruled the breast cancer awareness bracelets do not cross a line, and banning them breaks a law.

It raises new questions for a North Attleboro teenager who bought one of the $5 fundraising bracelets and was told she couldn't wear it at her middle school.

The controversy surrounds the word "boobies" emblazoned on the bracelet, which is meant to be eye-catching and provocative.

WBZ-TV's Beth Germano reports.

At North Attleboro Middle School, they became trendy.

"I feel like everyone should understand why we wear them, instead of wearing them because they're funny," said 13 year old Ali Hayes, an eighth grader.

The school found them to be offensive, and many parents agree.

"Kids want to be an advocate, but it's hard. Where do you draw the line?", asked parent Stephanie Shultz.

Ali Hayes' father stands by his daughter, and believes the bracelets can get teens' attention.

"They need something that gives them a hook, that gets them talking. Maybe after they see the humor it raises awareness about the serious side of the whole issue," said Robert Hayes.

The U.S. District Court Judge in Pennsylvania ruled in a free speech case brought by students in that state. The decision isn't binding in Massachusetts, but it could set a precedent.

"I feel like we're old enough now to know the terms," said Ali Hayes.

She now hopes there's some legal weight behind the bracelets.