Regal Cinemas begins checking bags, purses before admission at theaters nationwide

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Your next trip to the movie theater may feel more like a trip through airport security.

Regal Entertainment Group has become the first national cinema chain to announce random inspections of bags and backpacks. The new policy, posted on its website, says "backpacks and bags of any kind are subject to inspection prior to admission."

An employee for ABC-13 noticed the change this past Saturday when she went to see a movie at the Regal Entertainment Group-owned Edwards Greenway Grand Palace off Weslayan. She purchased her tickets at the counter and went inside. When she handed them to the ticket collector, she was then subjected to a bag search "for security reasons." Employees then searched through her purse before allowing her to enter the theater.

It's not just Houston. The new bag check policy has also been spotted at theaters in Virginia, Florida, Ohio and several other states.

The movie theater chain hasn't said what's behind the new policy, only stating that its in place to "ensure the safety of our guests and employees." It also admits the policy is "an inconvenience and that it is not without flaws, but hope these are minor in comparison to increased safety."

What do you think of the new bag check policy? Let us know on our ABC-13 Facebook page.