Women Incensed Over New NFL Rules Banning Most Purses
By Jim Melwert
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - If you're heading to any Eagles games this fall, leave the bags – and purses – at home, as the NFL is implanting a new security policy.
Among the new rules this season, only small clutch bags will be permitted inside the stadium. The league says purses may be no bigger than approximately the size of your hand.
Most women, like this one, aren't fans of the idea: "Just when they go through security, check them. That's it. As far as like bags, like that suitcase over there."
Shelby from Southwest Philly says she gets the whole security ban on bags, but banning purses?
"That's a little bit ridiculous, like a pocketbook? You know what women carry in their pocketbooks, even my wallet's bigger than my hand. I don't agree with that."
Nita from Wynnefield shares that view. "I can see the bag, but not the women's purses. We got personal stuff in there. Banning women's purses? No."
The new policy will also ban cinch bags, seat cushions, fanny packs, camera or computer bags. Only clear plastic bags no bigger than 12-by-12-by-6 inches, or one-gallon freezer bags will be allowed. Any medically necessary items will also be allowed with proper inspection.
The new policies will be in effect for the preseason games – and also the open practices at Lincoln Financial Field that begin on July 28th.
Christopher Cabott, an attorney, agent, and professor of sports law at Temple University, says that from a legal perspective, there's no wrongdoing by the NFL.
And after the Boston Marathon, he adds, increased security is the new normal.
"There's certainly a double edge to that sword," he notes. "If you can't bring in coolers or cooler-bags, it's going to make you buy more food, so I can imagine that the fans and a good slice of society say, 'Hey, this is really economic.' I personally don't think it is."
Cabott says because the move is league-wide, fans have little recourse.
Penn State is adopting a similar no-bag policy at Beaver Stadium: they won't allow purses (see related story).
