MSU to implement new security measures for home football games

Montana State University will implement new safety and security measures at Bobcats home football games for the upcoming season, including a new clear bag policy.
 
"The safety of our student-athletes, employees and fans is the No. 1 priority," said Bobcat Director of Athletics Leon Costello. "MSU's new security measures are intended to maintain the safety and security at football games while increasing efficiency for fans entering the venue."
 
The clear bag policy allows transparent bags no larger than 12 inches tall by 6 inches wide by 12 inches deep, as well as 1-gallon, clear, resealable plastic storage bags. Select non-clear bags will be allowed into Bobcat Stadium, including small clutch bags (no larger than 4.5-by-6.5 inches), seat cushions without pockets or zippers, and medical and diaper bags. All bags are subject to search.

 
Fans can each bring in one approved bag and one of the smaller clutch-style bags. They can also bring coats and blankets into the stadium that do not fit in an approved bag.
 
Items prohibited under the new policy, whether opaque or clear, include backpacks, large purses, oversized tote bags, mesh bags, drawstring bags, camera bags, binocular cases and fanny packs.
 
The new policy is in effect only for Bobcat Stadium and Bobcats football games. Bobcat Athletics will provide season ticket holders with one free, compliant clear bag per ticket account. The MSU Bookstore and other local retailers will also sell compliant clear bags.
 
The clear bag policy is based on similar policies used by the National Football League and the Southeastern Conference, Costello said.
 
MSU is also installing walkthrough metal detectors and gate cameras at the stadium. Both of these are designed to make entering the stadium more efficient for fans, said MSU Police Chief Frank Parrish.
 
"We've worked with Homeland Security and law enforcement on the local, state and federal levels to implement these new security measures," Parrish said. "We've made changes each of the last few years to make our events safer for fans, and these are the next steps in our ongoing initiatives."
 
"Montana State University is proud to lead the charge across the Big Sky Conference for increased fan and participant safety," said MSU President Waded Cruzado.
 
More information and a full list of prohibited items, with images, are available at msubobcats.com/clearbags.