STARKVILLE – In an effort to enhance fan safety, Mississippi State will implement a new clear bag policy for the 2016 football season at Davis Wade Stadium.
The policy, which takes effect for the Sept. 3 season-opener against South Alabama, is consistent with the NFL’s current model and being adopted by most Southeastern Conference schools this season, including Alabama, Auburn, Florida, LSU, Texas A&M, Tennessee and South Carolina.
Only clear tote bags that do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12” or one-gallon plastic freezer bags will be allowed in Davis Wade Stadium. In addition, small handheld clutch purses no larger than 4.5” x 6.5” will be permitted. Spectators also will be able to carry other items allowed into the stadium such as binoculars, cameras, and smart phones, but their cases will not be permitted.
Each ticketed fan will be allowed to bring only one clear bag into the venue and a small clutch.
The new clear bag policy is expected to expedite the entry process at Davis Wade Stadium. There will be express lanes at all four corners of Davis Wade Stadium (Gates A, F, L and H) for fans who enter the stadium without bags.
The following guidelines will be used:
Approved Bags:
    Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC  bags that do not exceed 12”x 6” x 12”, one-gallon clear, re-sealable plastic storage bag (Ziploc bag or similar), small clutch bags no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap, medically necessary items (after proper inspection, enter through Gates B and I).
Prohibited Bags:
 Purses larger than a clutch bag, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch/drawstring bags, luggage of any kind, computer bags, diaper bags, binocular cases, camera bags, non-approved seat cushions, which include large traditional seat cushions that have pockets, zippers, compartments or covers
Clear tote bags that comply with the new policy are available now at local retailers and HailStateStore.com. For more information on the clear bag policy, visit HailState.com/clearbag.
Davis Wade Stadium Clear Bag Policy FAQ
Why is Mississippi State implementing this policy in Davis Wade Stadium?
Safety of our fans is our first priority. This proactive measure based on the successful NFL model provides a safe, secure environment. The new policy will also improve the overall fan experience and expedite entry into Davis Wade Stadium. We encourage fans not to bring any bags, but we have created a policy that balances the needs of spectator safety and convenience.
How does a clear bag improve security?
The clear bag can be easily searched and reduce faulty searches. It also improves the ability of law enforcement officials to spot prohibited items. The Department of Homeland Security’s “See Something, Say Something” campaign is supported by this measure.
How does this expedite my entry into Davis Wade Stadium?
This policy enables us to move fans through our security checkpoints faster, allowing staff to be more efficient and effective in checking bags that are brought into the Davis Wade Stadium. A standard size bag eliminates the need for bag templates to check sizes. Shorter lines mean fewer problems, all while guests enjoy an improved sense of safety. Fans without bags will also have the ability to enter through express lanes at all four corners (Gates A, F, L and H) of the stadium.
How many bags can each person bring into the venue?
Each ticketed fan can carry one (1) large clear bag — either a one-gallon Ziploc-style bag or the approved 12” x 6” x 12” clear bag — plus a small clutch purse (4.5” x 6.5”). The small clutch must be carried into the venue outside the clear bag and is subject to search.
Are other schools using this method?
Yes. Throughout the SEC, Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Tennessee, Texas A&M, South Carolina and LSU will institute clear bag policies for the 2016 season. A conference-wide clear bag policy at football venues is expected in the near future. The venues of three of MSU’s 2016 road opponents will utilize the clear bag policy, including LSU, UMass and Alabama. The policy has been in place in the NFL since 2013 and for the last two bowl games MSU has appeared in (Orange Bowl, Belk Bowl).
What happens if I show up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
For 2016 only, fans carrying bags that do not meet the approved criteria must have them inspected and tagged at one of the following enhanced security gates: B on the west side and I on the east side (see diagram). Please expect lengthy delays at these gates due to the thorough nature of these bag checks. We encourage fans not to bring any bags, but we have created a policy that balances the needs of spectator safety and convenience. It is strongly encouraged that fans return these items to their vehicles.
Where can I buy a clear bag?
While a one-gallon Ziploc-style bag may be used, fans who desire to carry Mississippi State branded bags may purchase them at local retailers or at HailStateStore.com. Only a permissible clear 12” x 6” x 12” bag may be used.
Can I bring my purse?
Yes, as long as it meets the permissible 4.5” x 6.5” size requirements. A small clutch purse, with or without a handle or strap, is permitted along with either the 12” x 6” x 12” clear tote bag or one-gallon freezer bag.
What about diaper bags?
Diapers and other baby supplies must be carried in a permissible 12” x 6” x 12” clear bag. Each member of a family, including children, is allowed to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse into the stadium.
Can I carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or tablets separately from the clear bag?
Yes. Binoculars, a cell phone or a camera can be carried into Davis Wade Stadium but their cases or bags will not be allowed.
Are seat cushions allowed to be carried into the venue?
Only approved seat cushions may be carried into Davis Wade Stadium. Seat cushions that have pockets, zippers, storage compartments, armrests or covers are not permitted.
If I have certain items that I need to bring into the venue for medical reasons and they won’t fit in the clear bag, what do I do?
Fans carrying medically necessary bags or equipment into the venue will be required to have their bag/equipment inspected and tagged by security at one of the following gates of Davis Wade Stadium: B on the west side and I on the east side (see diagram).
Does this policy apply to me if I’m working at the game, not attending as a fan?
All credentialed gameday support staff, personnel and credentialed media will enter Davis Wade Stadium at designated gates. All items brought into the stadium will be screened and inspected at these locations.
Do I have to put everything I’m carrying into a permissible clear bag?
No. This policy is designed to limit only the type of bags carried into Davis Wade Stadium. Fans may carry in their pockets or jackets, keys, makeup, combs, cell phones, wallet, feminine products, credit cards, etc. if they choose not to put them in a permissible clear bag or clutch. Spectators may also carry a blanket over their arm, binoculars and/or a camera around their neck or in their hand without a case. Fans can use the permissible clear bag and clutch to carry other items. Every family member may carry their own permissible clear bag.
Will the clear bag policy be implemented at other athletic events/venues?
At this time, the clear bag policy applies only to entry at Davis Wade Stadium.