This morning at EWR, my laser pointer was confiscated at security, ultimately by someone wearing an AA badge (not the hired security screeners). I was told that since 9/11, laser pointers are not allowed in carry-on baggage.

Putting aside the fact that I've been travelling with it for the last four months without a problem, can someone explain to me why this would be?
Also, when I asked at security for a list of non-approved items, I was told that they do not have a printed list. That makes it sound like it's on the whims of whomever is searching that day -- gee, my kid could use a new laser pointer...

<sigh>

The nice people in the Admiral's Club pointed out that the ticket jacket has a decent list of what's approved and what's not...certainly doesn't say anything about a laser pointer.