From Valleynewslive · · 1m 20s
Senate Takes Up College Sports Bill
A bipartisan Senate bill would set national rules for athlete pay, transfers, NIL rights, conference growth and medical costs.
In brief
A bipartisan Senate bill would set national rules for athlete pay, transfers, NIL rights, conference growth and medical costs. The Protect College Sports Act aims to replace uneven state rules with one federal framework for college athletics. Originally reported by Valleynewslive.
Senate debate begins
The U.S. Senate began debate Tuesday on the Protect College Sports Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at making college athletics more stable and fair.
Hoeven backs the bill
Sen. John Hoeven of North Dakota is cosponsoring the measure, introduced by Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell through the Senate Commerce Committee.
“I love sports and I care about the long-term viability of our college athletic programs.”
Pay rules face strain
Hoeven's office says state laws and court rulings have created uneven rules, especially after the 2025 House v. NCAA settlement let schools pay athletes directly.
Limits on money moves
The bill would limit school payments to athletes, curb player and coach poaching, restrict transfers and slow major conference consolidation.
NIL and health protections
It would protect NIL rights, create a registry of certified agents, set a five-year playing cap and require Division I schools to cover sports injury costs.
NDSU enters the pitch
Hoeven promoted the bill Monday with former NDSU football coach Craig Bohl and current NDSU track and field athlete Adam Dugger.
What it means
The Protect College Sports Act aims to replace uneven state rules with one federal framework for college athletics.
