Senate Approves Protect College Sports Act with 77-22 Vote

The Senate voted 77-22 on Monday to pass the Protect College Sports Act, a bipartisan measure that would establish a single federal rulebook for college athletics. The legislation standardizes how student-athletes can earn money from their name, image and likeness (NIL), caps direct payments from schools, and sets uniform rules for transfers, eligibility and media rights. Under the bill, athletes may transfer once without losing a year of eligibility, and they are granted five years of eligibility with exceptions for serious injury. Colleges would be allowed to negotiate broadcasting agreements collectively.

Supporters argue the bill will bring stability to a rapidly changing landscape. > "This bill puts an end to the chaos plaguing college athletics. It protects NIL opportunities because student athletes deserve the opportunity to benefit from their talent," said Sen. Ted Cruz on the Senate floor.

Critics expressed concerns about the expanded role of the NCAA, which would oversee compliance and receive immunity from federal antitrust lawsuits. > Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy said the legislation gives the NCAA greater legal protection without giving athletes a comparable voice in rulemaking.

The NCAA thanked the senators for their bipartisan effort and noted that the bill now moves to the House of Representatives, where it faces further debate. The Congressional Black Caucus and some conservative members have voiced opposition, citing insufficient protections for Black athletes and concerns about federal oversight. With the House on a midterm recess, no immediate vote is expected.