Returning from FCO last weekend, I got to AMS for my KL AMS-ATL connection. Inquired at the gate about whether they were in an oversold situation.

The rest of the conversation went something like this:
Agent: "Yes, I currently have 4 passengers without seats."
Agent: "Why would you ask this, sir?"
Me: " I was wondering if you needed any volunteers."
Agent (with puzzled look): "You don't want to fly today?"
Me: "I don't NEED to fly today"
Agent: "I'm sorry sir, we can't do that.
Me: "Why not?"
Agent: "On US-bound flights we are not allowed to take people off of the flight, because of concerns over baggage."
Me: "Really??...Ok, thanks."


Is this a new rule? I know that they were offering €600+hotel and food if anyone was willing to take a bump AMS-YUL earlier in June. I had not heard of this rule. Anyone else?