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PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — A group appointed by the South Dakota Board of Regents is exploring a potential change in state law to allow beer and wine sales at events on the state's six public university campuses.
The changes would apply to sporting events, performing arts venues and special events, and the task force is expected to return its recommendations to the board in December, the Argus Leader (http://argusne.ws/1LUjChV ) reported. State law doesn't ban serving alcohol, but on-site sales are prohibited.
Board of Regents spokeswoman Janelle Toman said the idea is in its early stages. The task force includes representatives from the public universities.
The regents could move forward with a proposal to be presented to the state Legislature, which would need to approve it, or continue to research the subject.
The board said the reasoning is to generate revenue, improve the fan experience and manage risk.
Justin Sell, director of athletics at South Dakota State University, said the school devotes resources to enforcing tailgating rules and ensuring fans' safety at football games.
"We've all got bills to pay," Sell said. "What's always been interesting to me is we set up public safety and security to manage the issue, but we make no money to pay those people with sales. I'm a realist. I say let's sit down and look at this. Is it an option, and does it make sense?"
University President David Chicoine said there's a significant amount of work ahead to understand what other states are doing and consider what would be appropriate for South Dakota.
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Information from: Argus Leader, http://www.argusleader.com
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