CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As Carolina Panthers fans poured into the Bank of America Stadium on Friday night, plastic Ziploc bags, plastic purses and small clutch bags were in many people's hands.
"I think it's for our safety. They have to do this," said Lynne Dayton, who was going to the game.
The change in what fans were carrying, or weren't carrying, comes after the Panthers announced a new NFL bag policy. Some clutch purses, clear bags and seat pads without zippers or clasps are allowed. But most purses, fanny packs and backpacks are not.
Eyewitness News ran into some fans who didn't know about the new rules until Channel 9 told them. Others had heard of the new policy at FanFest, online or the news and were prepared. Event employees handed out flyers reminding people of the new rules. Fans who had the wrong size or kind of purse or seat pad were allowed to bring them in Friday night, with the flyer as a warning.
The Panthers said the bag policy was made to increase security, adding to officers, security wands and bag checks that are already in place. Channel 9 was told the rules are aimed at speeding up the entry process. Renovations were made to the north and east gates of the stadium in an effort to speed entry up as well. More screening points were added.
"I think it's fine, safety first. I can carry all I need right here," said Lori Sastare, as she showed her clutch bag.
One woman said she made special bags for her and her friends so they could comply with the rules and still be stylish.
"We'll take a regular bag and put our monogram on it in Panthers colors," said Helen Penter.
Channel 9 was told exceptions will be made for items needed for medical reasons. Those things will still be checked at the gate.
WSOC
