As California Gov. Gavin Newsom considers affixing his signature to legislation that would pave the way for collegiate athletes in the state to earn money from their names, images and likenesses, legislators in states around the country are considering taking up similar legislation.
Most recently, New York state senator Kevin Parker has proposed legislation mirroring what passed both houses of the California legislature, according to Syracuse.com.
Senate Bill S6722 would prevent NCAA member schools in the state from revoking the eligibility or scholarship of any athlete who is able to make money on the use of their name, image or likeness. Players would also be allowed to hire agents or attorneys for business deals without fear of punishment.
“Students shouldn’t have to struggle if their skills are being profited from by the colleges and universities they attend,” the proposal says. “The issuance of a scholarship should not be the basis to deny athletes fair pay to play.”
With Parker’s proposal, New York joins South Carolina and Colorado as states considering legislation that would allow student-athletes to earn money.
Syracuse.com reports that the New York legislature is out of session until January, and that it’s unclear how much support Parker’s bill would have.
The NCAA has voiced opposition to similar legislation, and regardless of whether it’s adopted in states throughout the country, a legal fight seems inevitable.
