By Dr. Andrew Zimbalist and Dr. Donna A. Lopiano
Originally published September 15, 2020
Thirty-four states have proposed or passed legislation to allow their college athletes to earn income from their names, images, and likenesses (NILs). Unfortunately, there is considerable variation in what these bills provide. It would be unworkable for colleges in the same conference but in different states to have different provisions regarding in what ways, in what quantities, and under what conditions athletes can earn income. Accordingly, a uniform law commission is trying to reconcile the differences, and Congress is getting in on the act in search of national legislation.