U of M president opposes expansion of alcohol sales at TCF stadium

TCF Stadium
The TCF Bank Stadium under construction at the University of Minnesota in March.
MPR Photo/Tim Post

A Minnesota House measure, now in conference committee at the state Capitol, would allow alcohol to be served throughout the TCF football stadium. The stadium is set to open in September.

The university wants to serve alcohol only to people in expensive premium seats and private suites.

University officials say that would help the school monitor and limit the purchase of alcohol in the 50,000 seat stadium.

University President Robert Bruininks said he doesn't appreciate the legislature's effort to expand alcohol sales.

"I think this is a bit of micro-management in the university's business that I don't think is healthy at this time," Bruininks said.

If the measure is passed by lawmakers Bruininks said the University may have to take a second look at its plans to sell beer and wine at the new facility.

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