Senate passes Protect College Sports Act 77-22, setting up House showdown

  • The Senate passed the Protect College Sports Act by a bipartisan 77-22 vote.
  • The bill permits approximately $43 million to $45 million in school-to-athlete revenue-sharing.
  • The House is recessed until after the midterm elections, delaying further legislative action.

The Senate passed the bipartisan Protect College Sports Act by 77-22 on Sept. 28, advancing a federal framework for college athletics before the chamber's recess. The bill would codify student-athletes' rights to earn money from their name, image and likeness, address unlimited transfers, temporarily pause conference realignment and establish rules for coaching moves. It would allow schools to provide athletes up to approximately $43 million to $45 million in revenue-sharing, plus as much as $5 million for women's and Olympic non-revenue sports. Supporters, including Sens. Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell, say the measure would bring stability and curb athletic-department spending, while opponents led by Sens. Cory Booker and Chris Murphy argue it limits athlete rights without addressing coaching pay, collective bargaining or employee status. The House is recessed until after the midterm elections, leaving further action uncertain, although President Trump has signaled support.

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