Originally Posted by
Shadowfactor
The way I've been explained it by several flight attendants is that they can't tell you not to go to the bathroom, only suggest that the seatbelt sign is on.
Sounds like they are forbidden from giving you a direct order thus you aren't violating any laws by going to the bathroom.
This is just my understanding and it may be incorrect.
I was told is it is a liability to the airline if they tell you it is OK to leave your seat when the seatbelt light is on. So, don't ask permission if you need to go.