Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) wants it to be free to move about the country.
Well, not exactly, but he does want to get rid of all carry-on baggage fees.
The senator introduced a bill essentially banning airlines' ability to charge passengers for traveling with small bags.
From The Hill:
The senator's legislation blocks a private letter ruling issued by the Treasury Department in January that allows airlines to receive preferential tax treatment for fees on services that are not deemed necessary for air transportation. The bill declares carry-on bags are necessary for air travel, which makes the carry-on fee subject to taxation.
Spirit Airlines recently announced that the company would charge passengers $45 for every bag brought on their airplanes to much criticism.
"Airline passengers have always had the right to bring a carry-on bag without having to worry about getting nickel and dimed by an airline company," Schumer said Tuesday.
Sen. Frank Lautenber (D-NJ) signed, a cosponsor of the bill, released a statement Wednesday saying, "Airlines are taking advantage of a tax loophole and reaping financial benefits at the expense of travelers. It's time to say enough is enough. Let's put an end to passenger mistreatment and restore consumer protections."
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