The US Senate on September 28 passed the Protect College Sports Act by 77 votes to 22, a major step toward federal regulation of college athletics.

The bill addresses the chaotic landscape of name, image and likeness (NIL) compensation for college athletes, which has grown rapidly since 2021 with little uniform oversight. Supporters say a national framework is needed to replace the current patchwork of state laws and school-by-school policies.

The legislation aims to set consistent rules for how college athletes can earn money from endorsements and sponsorships while preserving the amateur model of college sports. It also seeks to protect athletes’ rights and give schools clearer compliance standards.

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives, where its prospects will determine whether it reaches the president’s desk. College sports conferences, university leaders and athlete advocates are all watching the next stage closely.

If enacted, the law would be the first comprehensive federal statute governing college athlete compensation, ending years of legal battles and regulatory uncertainty that have reshaped American college sports.