The Texas Senate has unanimously approved a bill that would allow colleges and universities in the state to pay student athletes directly through agreements involving their name, image, and likeness (NIL).
The legislation, if enacted, would mark the first time student athletes in Texas could receive direct compensation from their schools under a state-sanctioned framework.
The bill, which passed without opposition, includes provisions that limit NIL agreements to athletes who are at least 17 years old. Lawmakers added this amendment after concerns were raised about the need to protect younger athletes from potential exploitation.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said the measure aims to preserve and strengthen college athletics in Texas. The bill now moves to the Texas House for consideration. If approved and signed by the governor, it would go into effect on September 1, 2025.
The legislation seeks to establish clear legal guidelines for NIL compensation, aligning Texas with other states that have enacted similar measures.
If enacted, the law would establish regulatory standards to oversee NIL agreements, ensuring transparency and compliance with NCAA and state guidelines.