NFL, Cardinals announce new bag policy for games

The following press release was sent out on June 13:

Tempe, AZ – To provide a safer environment for the public and significantly expedite fan entry into University of Phoenix Stadium, the Cardinals today announced an NFL policy that limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into the stadium.

The NFL Committee on Stadium Security in May unanimously recommended the implementation of this measure that will enhance public safety and make it easier for fans to gain access in all stadiums. It was discussed with all clubs at the May league meeting and will be implemented at all NFL stadiums beginning with preseason games.

The Cardinals strongly encourage fans to not bring any type of bags, but outlined today what is permissible. Fans will be able to carry the following style and size bag, package, or container at stadium plaza areas, stadium gates, or when approaching queue lines of fans awaiting entry into the stadium:

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12.” Cardinals’ season-ticket members will be sent compliant bags in early August.

• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar). The team will have these bags available at University of Phoenix Stadium gates on game day.

• Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap, may be carried into the stadium along with one of the clear bag options.

• An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at a gate designated for this purpose.

Prohibited items include, but are not limited to: purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, luggage of any kind, seat cushions, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size.

For additional information, go to NFL.com/allclear.

“Through focus groups and in our Fan Forum last month, we consistently heard from Cardinals fans how important public safety is to them and it is our top priority as well,” said Cardinals President Michael Bidwill, who chairs the NFL Committee on Stadium Security & Fan Conduct. “Providing a safe and secure environment is something our fans deserve. This will make the process of checking items much more efficient and effective. We will be able to deliver a better and quicker experience at the gates and also provide a safer environment. Also very important to us in establishing this policy was balancing the unique needs of all our fans, especially families and women who attend our games. We will make sure our guest service locations have the appropriate staff and supplies to meet their needs.”

Fans will continue to be able to enjoy their tailgate activities in the parking lots and to do so with greater safety and the knowledge that their entry into the stadium will be smoother and faster.

In recent years the Cardinals have enhanced their already comprehensive safety plans with the additional measures such as pat downs, bag checks and metal detectors.

This public safety measure is being successfully used at other large venues. The University of Michigan, Penn State University and Michigan State University do not permit any bags, while the TD Garden in Boston only permits clutch bags.

Working personnel, including media, will continue to enter NFL stadiums through designated gates where they will be subject to screening and bag inspections already in effect at all stadiums.

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