AUSTIN, Texas -- To enhance existing security measures and expedite venue entry at Texas Athletics events, a new clear bag policy will be implemented that regulates the size and type of bags that may be carried into event venues. The clear bag policy is effective Aug. 1, 2017 and will be enforced at all home events including the Texas Soccer home opener vs. Incarnate Word on Aug. 11 and the Texas Football home opener vs. Maryland on Sept. 2. This policy does not include events at Gregory Gym.

Many universities across the country have this policy in place including 2017 Texas Football road opponents USC and TCU. Other Big 12 Conference members requiring clear bags include Kansas, K-State, and Texas Tech. The SEC will implement this policy conference-wide beginning with the 2017 football season. The NFL has had this policy in place since 2013.

"Fan experience is a top priority for Texas Athletics," said Men's Athletics Director Mike Perrin. "By implementing this new policy, we are being proactive in enhancing the existing security measures in our venues and expediting the security screening process for fan entry."

Bags that are permitted include:

Bags that are clear plastic and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12". This could include: Small totes, small backpacks, fanny packs

One-gallon, clear, resealable plastic storage bags

Small clutch bags or purses do not have to be clear but cannot exceed 4.5" x 6.5".

Each person is allowed one large clear bag and one small clutch.

The following bags that are not clear and do not meet size requirements are prohibited. Examples include:

Purses, diaper bags, camera or binocular cases, backpacks, printed pattern plastic bags, fanny packs, reusable grocery totes, mesh or straw bags, duffle bags, large totes.

Diaper bags are not allowed. Items normally carried in a diaper bag must be put into a clear plastic bag for venue entry. Each member of a family, including children, will be allowed to carry an approved clear bag into the stadium. In this scenario, the diaper bag would be considered the child's bag.

Exceptions will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at designated areas. There is no check-in location for prohibited bags.

"Although we recognize the need for this policy, it is still a big change for our fans, especially those who are used to carrying purses, diaper bags or binocular cases," said Perrin. "We do not want to turn anyone away at the gate so we encourage our fans to visit TexasSports.com/clearbag or call 512-471-3333 to get any further clarification on the policy."

For fans who wish to purchase approved clear bags with the Longhorns logo, the Texas Longhorns Official Team Shop has officially licensed clear bags for purchase.

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