Bag policy in full force at Georgia Dome

ATLANTA, Ga. — It may take Falcons fans longer to get through the gates for Sunday's home opener if they don't adhere to a new bag policy.

The NFL now restricts people from bringing large purses and bags into stadiums and security at the Georgia Dome said there won't be any exceptions.

Patrons are allowed to carry a clutch bag. It can only be 7 inches by 4 inches, about the size of a hand. Those who carry anything larger will have to put their belongings in a clear, plastic bag and check the bag before they're allowed to go into the stadium.

"There's not purse inspections and that stuff. They can look at these clear bags, see what's in them very quickly and send a person right on through," said Falcons spokesperson Jason Kirskey.

Channel 2's Amanda Cook caught up with some fans outside the Georgia Dome shortly before kickoff. While most fans said they understood that the clear bag policy was for added security, Cook said no one was happy about it.

"I think it's intrusive on our privacy. I think we should be able to carry a bag or small purse for personal items," one fan said.

Another woman echoed her sentiments.

"I'm very angry. I'm not happy about it. I feel like women are supposed to be allowed to attend this event too, and I have things that I don't want him carrying," she said.

Channel 2 Action News talked to some fans earlier this week who said they're going to be prepared for the new policy, although they weren't too fond of it.

"We've been hearing about it, so we knew it was coming," said one woman.

"It's not a Louis Vuitton, but as long as it gets us in the game, we're good," said another woman, who had to use a plastic bag.

Patrons are restricted from bringing book bags, camera bags or even diaper bags. The change caused some confusion at last month's preseason Falcons game.

Some fans had to check their bags outside before the game, but then a few reported their bags walked off in the wrong hands.

Shakeya McDuffie said she wasn't allowed in with her clutch.

"They were like, 'You can't come in with that. You can't have your bag," McDuffie said. "I had to dump everything out and just put it in (someone else's) pocket."

WSBTV