ST. LOUIS, MO (KTVI)– Women who love the Rams aren’t necessarily going to love a new rule for fans wanting to attend their games. A new rule, passed by the NFL’s security committee and being implemented league wide, will ban purses from stadiums.
The league calls it a move to “enhance public safety and improve stadium access for fans,” but many female fans are hopping mad about the idea.
“Are you serious?” Rams fan Cherlier McClendon asked incredulously when told about the move. “I think that’s ludicrous. I don’t understand why I wouldn’t be able to bring my purse in.”
League officials say it’s a matter of safety. The NFL’s Security Committee met with representatives from venues around the league after making the decision in May. Marty Brooks from the Convention and Visitors Commission was there, and he says the league called the Boston Marathon bombing “a game changer.” Brooks says league officials told the group they needed to take immediate action.
Only clutch purses the size of a person’s hand will be permitted. Clear plastic tote bags, no more than 12 inches by 12 inches will also be allowed. Gallon size freezer bags will be permitted as well.
On its website, the league says the move will both increase security and cut long lines for fans waiting on bag searches as they enter stadiums.
“This proactive measure both will enhance safety inside and outside the stadium and speed the security screening process for all NFL fans,” a statement explaining the policy says. “The public deserves to be in a safe, secure environment. This is about both safety and improving the overall fan experience.”
Some fans are taking it in stride. One woman, who didn’t want to give her name, said it wasn’t a problem.
“That’s fine. If that keeps the stadium safe that’s fine,” she said. “I can leave mine at home.”
But others aren’t as patient. Charla Clark says she’s more likely to stay home.
“I wouldn’t go. I wouldn’t go! I would not go!” she told us. “I keep first aid stuff, my money, my phone, all my essentials in my purse.”
McClendon agreed. “If I can’t be comfortable and have what I need there when I need it, I don’t know how comfortable I would be being in that establishment.”
