U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) have announced a bipartisan agreement on the Protect College Sports Act of 2026. This legislation aims to create enforceable national rules for college athletics, addressing issues related to transfers, eligibility, recruiting, and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights for athletes.
The Protect College Sports Act seeks to restore stability in college sports by ensuring fair competition and protecting student athletes while maintaining the traditions and rivalries that fans value. The bill includes provisions for NIL protections, athlete-agent rules, medical coverage for student athletes, and standards for health and safety.
Chairman Cruz emphasized the need for order in college sports, citing concerns over transfer chaos and eligibility lawsuits. Ranking Member Cantwell highlighted the importance of collegiate athletics for human development and the need to manage costs while preserving opportunities for student athletes. Senators Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) also expressed their support for the legislation, noting its potential to protect non-revenue sports and ensure the long-term stability of college athletics.
The committee is expected to announce a hearing on the legislation soon.