New Bag Ban Prohibits Backpacks, Coolers At NFL Stadiums
SAN DIEGO (CBSLA.com) — Are you ready for some football without all the baggage?
KNX 1070's Tom Reopelle reports the National Football League issued new rules Monday for which items fans can bring to cheer on their favorite team.
New Policy Bans Backpacks, Coolers At NFL Stadiums
Starting this preseason, purses, backpacks, and other large bags will be prohibited at all NFL stadiums nationwide, including The Queue, the home of the San Diego Chargers.
The NFL Committee on Stadium Security voted unanimously in May to recommend the new bag policy (PDF), which includes purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, seat cushions, luggage of any kind, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size.
Only bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" - including one-gallon plastic freezer bags - will be permitted for fans at stadium plaza areas, stadium gates, or while awaiting entry into a stadium. Small clutch bags will also be permitted, officials said.
Exceptions will be made for "medically necessary items after proper inspection at a gate designated for this purpose," according to league officials.
Chargers spokesman Bill Johnston said the policy is aimed in part at protecting venues after the bombings at the Boston Marathon in April.
"It's not what's in the bag, it's the bag itself," Johnston said.
Fans carrying bags that do not meet league criteria will be turned away from the stadium "well before they reach the gates," officials said.
The league also announced clear plastic tote bags with NFL team logos will be available through club merchandise outlets or at NFLshop.com/allclear.
