Bill > S955

This bill establishes comprehensive due process requirements for investigations conducted by large athletic associations (defined as having at least 900 member institutions) into potential bylaw violations at member colleges and universities. The bill mandates that when an investigation is initiated, the athletic association must provide written notice to the member institution within 60 days, detailing the specific programs, persons, and alleged violations under investigation, and must limit the investigation to violations occurring within the past two years. The athletic association must provide a notice of allegations within 8 months, including potential penalties and the factors considered in filing charges. The bill requires a hearing before the association's infractions committee within one year, prohibits the use of confidential source information as evidence, and allows member institutions to seek arbitration if they dispute the punishment. The legislation also establishes an enforcement mechanism through the Attorney General, who can investigate complaints, conduct hearings, and impose civil penalties ranging from $10,000 to $15 million for violations, with the potential to permanently remove members of the association's governing body in serious cases. The goal is to ensure fairness, transparency, and due process in collegiate athletic investigations, protecting the rights of member institutions while maintaining accountability.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/955/all-info