Bill > H1930

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights for student-athletes in Massachusetts, providing clear guidelines to protect and empower college athletes' ability to earn compensation from their personal brand. The legislation defines key terms like "student-athlete" and "NIL" and creates a framework that allows students to earn money from endorsements, sponsorships, and personal appearances without jeopardizing their athletic scholarships or collegiate sports eligibility. Institutions of higher education must designate NIL compliance officers, provide educational training about contracts and financial literacy, and cannot prevent or directly compensate athletes for NIL use. The bill mandates that student-athletes disclose NIL agreements within 72 hours of signing, requires athlete agents to register with the state and limits their fees to 15% of gross compensation, and establishes an oversight mechanism through the Massachusetts Attorney General's office to investigate potential violations. Additionally, the bill creates privacy protections for NIL agreements, establishes an implementation task force to monitor the act's execution, and sets a future effective date of July 1, 2027, giving institutions time to prepare for the new regulations. Notably, the legislation aims to provide student-athletes with more economic opportunities while maintaining academic and athletic integrity, with built-in safeguards to prevent exploitation and ensure transparency.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1930