Yesterday, Morgan State University announced new ‘Clear Bag Guidelines’ for athletic events at Hughes Memorial Stadium and Hill Field House.

Morgan shared the announcement in an ‘MSU Announce’ email newsletter to students and faculty saying it would create a better overall experience by expediting entry and enhancing safety.

The guidelines permit anyone attending sporting events at Morgan to carry their belongings in any of the three approved bags: a clear tote no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches; a clear, one-gallon plastic storage bag; and a small clutch, no larger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches.

Newly prohibited items include purses, backpacks, opaque bags with drawstring, fanny packs and more.

The newsletter, signed by both Dena Freeman-Patton, vice president and director of athletics, and Lance Hatcher, chief of police and public safety, described the guidelines as a “widely embraced safety precaution” among sports venues. 

The new guidelines will aid efforts to keep fans safe and streamline the safety process by using methods similar to professional sports leagues and other Division I programs, according to Freeman-Patton.

“We were looking at ways to help make the entry a little easier for our fans and our students,” Freeman-Patton said. 

The standard will go into effect on Saturday, Sept. 23, when the Bears play University at Albany Great Danes. However, officials will not  turn away guests if they fail to meet the guidelines tomorrow — they will fully enforce them by homecoming, said Freeman-Patton.

Freeman-Patton also said that clear bags will be available for purchase at Saturday’s football game and in the University Student Center bookstore. 

“We are trying to get it out quickly but we’re going to work with everybody,” said Freeman-Patton.