Bill > HB1116

This bill amends the Student-Athlete Endorsement Rights Act to introduce a new financial provision for student-athletes who earn significant income from their name, image, likeness, or voice. Specifically, if a student-athlete earns more than $250,000 from such endorsements, their academic scholarship will be reduced by $1 for every dollar earned over that threshold. The bill reaffirms existing provisions that allow student-athletes to earn compensation through endorsements, but explicitly prohibits compensation directly tied to athletic performance. The legislation maintains that student-athletes are not considered employees of their educational institutions and protects their rights to obtain agents and pursue endorsement opportunities. It also allows postsecondary educational institutions to impose reasonable limitations on when and how student-athletes can participate in endorsement activities, and gives institutions control over the use of their logos and marks. The bill aims to provide student-athletes with more financial opportunities while establishing guidelines to prevent potential exploitation and maintain the integrity of educational institutions' athletic programs.