Tailgating turmoil

SBOE voted to allow alcoholic beverages at UI tailgating events.

Erin Bamer | Argonaut Joe Vandal poses with a couple of UI supporters as the Vandal Marching Band walks toward the Kibbie Dome for Idaho

The Idaho State board voted 3-2 in favor of permitting alcoholic beverages at University of Idaho tailgating events.

The decision, made Wednesday, came two years after the State Board banned alcohol from such events, leading to widespread backlash among the UI community.

“I was pleasantly surprised by this decision,” said ASUI President Nicole Skinner. “I’ve been hearing many great reasons to lift the alcohol ban but I had also heard some hesitation about changing it back so quickly. I’m grateful that the State Board acted in the best interest of the university.”

Skinner said the previous ban on alcohol actually hindered not only the game day experience of Idaho athletics, but also led to irresponsible drinking habits by those who still wished to consume prior to games. Skinner added she believed this decision will likely be seen favorably by both current UI students and alumni.

“Sometimes policy changes don’t have the impact we expect, which is when we have to reevaluate the reasons we made them in the first place,” she said.

Mike Keckler, chief communications and legislative affairs officer for SBOE, said the board usually votes every year on such proposals. He added similar proposals could affect both Boise State University and Idaho State University in the near future.

“It’s about trying to manage alcohol consumption at these events at college football games,” Keckler said.

Keckler said the decision was made without the input of three potential voters, due to some members not being present for the vote. However, because the Board reached a full quorum, the vote went through anyway.

UI Director of Communications Jodi Walker said the decision aligned with the university’s wishes, and said Vandal fans should expect an improved game day experience.

“We’re pleased that we are going to be able to offer our Vandal fans the same great game day experience that they are accustomed to and they deserve,” she said.

Skinner, meanwhile, said she understands the views of those who may argue the ban benefited campus, but emphasized the need for more lenient alcohol policy.

“I understand why some people might be unhappy with this decision, but I hope they will see that this is best for our students’ safety and the collective experience on game days,” she said. “I believe there were good intentions behind the alcohol ban but it has negatively impacted the game day experience and actually made students drink less responsibly.”

Brandon Hill can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @brandonmtnhill

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