EAST LANSING, Mich. — Just weeks before the beginning of the college football season, the Michigan State University Board of Trustees voted to permit alcohol sales at sporting events.
The amendment to the university's alcoholic beverage ordinances was unanimously approved by the board in a special meeting Wednesday morning.
The board also said they discussed efforts to address binge drinking at on-campus athletic events.
“The actions we are taking today create a better fan experience for Spartans and those visiting our athletic venues,” said Board Chair Rema Vassar, Ph.D. “Amending our alcoholic beverage ordinance to limit alcohol-related incidents creates a more welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.”
The board cites data from other institutions showing a correlation between alcohol sales inside stadiums and a reduction in binge-drinking and alcohol-related incidents.
Michigan State is the 13th Big Ten university to sell or announce plans to sell alcohol in athletic venues and the 10th university to offer alcohol throughout its football stadium.
MSU says they plan to begin alcohol sales at Spartan Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 16 in the Spartan's game against the University of Washington, pending licensing approval from the state.
Other games mentioned in the amendment include:
- Sep. 23 - Michigan State University vs. University of Maryland
- Oct. 21 - Michigan State University vs. University of Michigan
- Nov. 4 - Michigan State University vs. University of Nebraska
The university is also working to get the appropriate equipment to serve alcohol inside of the stadium, as well as training its staff to serve alcohol.
They say they also are looking into alcohol sales at Breslin Students Events Center, Munn Ice Arena and Old College Field.
"What we're hearing from other schools, is it's not a big moneymaker for the university," said Emily Guerrant, Vice President and University Spokesperson, "But it will allow us to take the dollars and invest in some of our student wellness programs, some of our safe drinking campaigns, for example, mental health supports for students, and also to address some infrastructure updates at the stadium."
Meanwhile, Western Michigan University is also adding alcohol sales to games this season. This came after a fan advisory committee identified the desire.
"One of the first things that came up in that first meeting was, boy, it would be great to be able to have a beer in the stands," said Dan Bartholomae, Vice President and Director of Athletics.
WMU will be increasing security at points of sale. They have also added a text line to games, where fans can report things like drink spills, people acting unruly or making others uncomfortable.
Grand Valley State University Board of Trustees approved a resolution to seek liquor licenses on June 23.
University of Michigan has not voted on the matter at this time.
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