Bill > SJM114

This Joint Memorial expresses the Idaho Legislature's findings regarding the critical state of intercollegiate athletics and urges the United States Congress to take immediate federal action to bring clarity, consistency, and stability to the field. The memorial highlights concerns stemming from recent litigation that has eliminated limits on athlete compensation and transfers, creating an uncertain environment that threatens the viability of college sports, while acknowledging that some changes benefiting student-athletes were overdue. It emphasizes the significant economic and cultural contributions of collegiate athletics, using Boise State University as a prime example of its positive impact on Idaho's economy, tourism, and state brand, and points out that institutions like Boise State are being impacted by major conference decisions without having a voice. Therefore, the Idaho Legislature calls on Congress to enact targeted legislation that establishes a uniform national framework for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) – which refers to a student-athlete's ability to profit from their personal brand – and revenue sharing, clarifies student-athlete employment status and eligibility, and ensures that women's and Olympic sports are preserved. The goal is to create predictable rules, protect universities and student-athletes from financial risks and competitive imbalances, and allow institutions to thrive economically and athletically.