Minnesota Police Group Sues NFL Over No-Handgun Policy

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - An association representing Minnesota police officers is suing the National Football League over a policy banning handguns in stadiums.

Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association Executive Director Dennis Flaherty says the lawsuit was filed Tuesday in Hennepin County.

Last September, the NFL enacted a policy banning firearms in NFL facilities unless the gun holder is providing security.

The association says this means off-duty officers can't keep their weapons in stadiums. Police say it violates state law, and could put the public and officers in danger.

Many officers keep their weapons at all times so they can respond if something happens when they're off-duty.

An NFL spokesman didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. The NFL has said limiting weapons in stadiums is in the best interest of public safety.