University of Maryland OKs Beer Sales During Sports Trial
COLLEGE PARK, Md. (WJZ)--The next time you go to see a football or basketball game at the University of Maryland College Park. you may be able to do so while enjoying a cold beer. But not everyone agrees with this proposal to sell alcohol at sporting events.
Amy Yensi has more on the controversy.
Maryland would join several dozen universities that allow alcohol to be sold to the public at football games.
Game day at Byrd Stadium, thousands of fans cheer the Terps fueled by school spirit, while other spirits are missing.
"I feel like I should be able to be treated like an adult and be able to buy if I'd like to," said Doug Kerr.
Currently, the University of Maryland does not sell alcoholic beverages to the general public.
The student government says that should change.
They convinced University President Wallace Loh to request a 1 year trial from the Prince George's County License Board to serve beer and wine at UMd. athletic venues starting fall 2015.
Students say the move would curb underage and binge drinking on campus, saying students often drink excessively, or "pregame" because they can't buy beer during the game.
"When we go to the sports games, we want something to celebrate with, and beer and wine is good," said Jen Jin.
Faculty members oppose the move saying students and alcohol are a bad mix.
"It might give them a little more freedom to want to do it," said Joe Robertson, IT staff UMDCP.
Officials say anyone caught using a fake ID to buy alcohol will be immediately and permanently removed from the venue.
The University also plans to limit consumption and add extra campus police.
"I think there would definitely be a possibility of people over 21 buying for kids under 21. So it's a little risky," Kerr said.
"There's a risk at college campus during sporting events where the school is providing it or not," Callie Portman, says.
If the 1 year trial is successful, UMd. would add wine to the menu.
The University estimates it could earn $500,000 in beer-sales, no word yet on when the vote would happen.
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