S. 4668: Protect College Sports Act of 2026

The "Protect College Sports Act of 2026" is designed to enhance the rights and protections of student athletes involved in collegiate sports. The primary focus of the bill is to safeguard athletes' name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights, ensuring they are fairly compensated and represented in agreements related to their identities.

Protections for Student Athletes

The bill requires intercollegiate athletic associations to establish a comprehensive database that includes student athlete information. This database must be updated annually and is aimed at maintaining athlete privacy while ensuring that graduate and undergraduate athletes receive protections, particularly those in Division I institutions.

Additionally, the legislation addresses various essential aspects of student athletes' experiences, including:

• Academic support for athletes to succeed in their studies.
• Financial literacy programs to help athletes manage their finances effectively.
• Scholarship security to ensure that athletic scholarships are maintained.
• Medical coverage to provide necessary health services.
• Health standards to protect the well-being of student athletes.

Commission and Reporting

A significant component of the bill includes the establishment of a commission specifically aimed at protecting student athletes from abuse and ensuring their overall educational and personal development. This commission will be responsible for:

• Reviewing and reporting on current practices and policies in intercollegiate athletics.
• Making recommendations regarding the welfare of student athletes, including potential legislative changes.

The bill also introduces a joint resolution process that will address recommendations on benefit limits related to athlete compensation and support mechanisms.

Recruitment and Liability Protections

To further protect student athletes, the bill includes provisions concerning recruitment practices, outlining acceptable methods for outreach and engagement by college athletic programs. Additionally, the legislation presents liability protections for students who report misconduct or violations, encouraging a culture of transparency and safety within collegiate sports environments.

Maintaining Historical Rivalries

Another key aspect of the Protect College Sports Act of 2026 is the requirement for member institutions that have historic football rivalries to engage in specific competition practices. Each institution is mandated to:

• Participate in at least two traditional rivalry games every four years.
• Play one game each year against a top historic rival that is from a different conference.

This provision aims to preserve the richness of collegiate sports traditions and foster a sense of continuity in competitive experiences for athletes and fans alike.

Relevant Companies

None found.