Senate Expected to Vote on College Sports Overhaul

The Senate is poised to vote on the Protect College Sports Act, a major effort to establish federal rules for college athletics as name, image and likeness compensation reshapes the industry. The bill would set national NIL and revenue-sharing rules, generally limit athletes to one penalty-free transfer and five years of eligibility, regulate agents’ fees, and grant the NCAA an antitrust exemption that could support transfer restrictions; it would also make conference changes harder. Supporters say the measure could protect athletes and preserve women’s and Olympic sports, while critics object to capping athlete compensation and restricting athletes’ legal rights. If the Senate passes the bill, it would still need House approval, and conference leaders are developing a separate governance and compensation plan in case it fails.