Bill > HB1386

This bill comprehensively regulates Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for college athletes in Tennessee, establishing a robust framework that allows student-athletes to earn compensation from their personal brand while creating supportive institutional structures. The legislation defines key terms like NIL and establishes that athletes can earn compensation based on fair market value, unrelated to athletic performance, and requires institutions to provide educational workshops on contract negotiation, tax responsibilities, and personal branding. Institutions are authorized to create NIL funds, operate media networks, and implement a "talent fee" (up to 10% of ticket prices) to support NIL activities, with mandates to ensure transparency and equitable distribution of revenues across all sports. A statewide NIL oversight committee will be established to monitor implementation, publish annual reports, and resolve disputes, and institutions are encouraged to develop direct-to-consumer platforms that showcase athlete content and create sponsorship opportunities. The bill also emphasizes supporting historically underserved institutions and prioritizes equality in NIL access, with institutions required to allocate at least 50% of NIL-generated funds directly to athletes and their representatives. Notably, the bill prohibits state regulatory bodies from investigating NIL activities and takes effect on July 1, 2025, signaling a comprehensive approach to modernizing collegiate athletics compensation in Tennessee.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1386&ga=114