Bipartisan legislation aimed at regulating the growing business of college sports is set to advance in the Senate this week. However, it is expected to face challenges in the House when lawmakers return in the fall. The Protect College Sports Act, advocated by Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), recently passed significant congressional hurdles. The bill received support from over 70 senators in two procedural votes, including key Democrats and conservatives who had been hesitant for weeks.
Cruz emphasized that a strong bipartisan vote was crucial to overcoming skepticism from House members. He encouraged Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) to keep House members in session to consider the bill. Nevertheless, Johnson sent members home early, delaying potential presidential approval until at least November. A lobbyist involved in the bill remains optimistic that the House will prioritize it upon returning, citing expectations from President Trump, who backed the measure.
The legislation grants student athletes the federal right to earn compensation for their name, image, and likeness. It also limits agent fees to 5 percent, ensures scholarships for ten years post-eligibility, and allows one transfer without sitting out a year. Importantly, the bill prohibits coaches from leaving midseason to join another program, addressing recent controversies like Lane Kiffin’s departure from Ole Miss.
Critics claim the bill favors the NCAA and top conferences, potentially restricting athletes’ earnings while safeguarding wealth for coaches and administrators. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) criticized the measure, stating, “The Protect College Sports Act sells out athletes and bails out the NCAA.”
The act’s progress represents significant movement toward the NCAA gaining congressional antitrust protection, a goal pursued for months at great expense. The NCAA engaged football coach Nick Saban for endorsement and coordinated meetings between coaches and legislators during bill amendments. Coaches involved included John Calipari, Mark Few, and Kelvin Sampson.
Coach Calipari expressed support in a video, noting, “It’s not perfect, but I believe this will solve 75 to 80 percent of our issues, and it’s been special to see both parties come together on this.” However, some lawmakers remain cautious, especially among those who opposed the SCORE Act, a similar bill that faced opposition from the Congressional Black Caucus and NAACP.
The SCORE Act was criticized for potentially limiting minority athletes’ earnings, particularly in Southern states. Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.) expressed tentative skepticism, highlighting the importance of addressing antitrust concerns.
House Republicans, like Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), voiced reservations, emphasizing the need for appropriate priorities amidst other legislative concerns like the SAVE America Act. Rep. Bryan Steil (R-Wis.) acknowledged systemic issues in college sports but warned against worsening the situation with permanent changes.