Bill for alcohol sales at UNC athletic events advances

RALEIGH, N.C. — All University of North Carolina system schools could sell alcoholic drinks at campus stadiums, arenas and athletic facilities if their trustee boards allow it in state House legislation.

The measure approved on Tuesday by the House alcohol control committee would allow beer and wine sales during university sporting events. Mixed drinks may be allowed for other events if vendors have such a permit.

[ALSO READ: South Carolina voters may decide fate of Sunday liquor sales]

Currently, sales or consumption for games are prohibited inside venues save for small exceptions, such as at football stadiums for UNC-Chapel Hill and N.C. State University.

Bill sponsor Rep. John Bell of Goldsboro says the bill is supported by chairs of nearly all campus trustee boards, and schools in other states where sales are allowed see fewer alcohol-related game-day problems.

The legislation now heads to another committee.

Associated Press