South Michigan News: Bipartisan committee introduces SCORE Act for NIL marketplace stabilization

Today, leaders from several key committees in the U.S. House of Representatives introduced the Student Compensation and Opportunity through Rights and Endorsements (SCORE) Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to stabilize the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) marketplace for college athletes.

"NIL offers an endless array of opportunities for student-athletes to make the most of their college experience, but the lack of clear guardrails has left athletes and universities on unstable ground," said Chairmen Tim Walberg (R-MI), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), and Jim Jordan (R-OH). "We are proud of this landmark legislation, and we look forward to working with our colleagues to strengthen this American institution."

Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) emphasized the need for a national framework: "College athletics are a vital part of American culture, and it's clear—from both student-athletes and universities—that a national framework is long overdue."

Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (D-OR) shared her perspective as a parent: "As the mom of a D1 athlete, I've seen firsthand how important—and how long overdue—it was to allow our student athletes to earn their fair share."

The SCORE Act seeks to create a national framework that provides stability, clarity, and transparency in college sports. Congressman Shomari C. Figures (D-AL) noted that the bill would ensure students have access to resources like health care and financial literacy courses.

Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-MI) highlighted fairness in NIL reform: "College athletes in Michigan and across the country deserve the chance to benefit from the value they help create."

"The SCORE Act provides the necessary framework to recapture the principles and spirit of collegiate sport," added Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI).

Congressman Russell Fry (R-SC) stated that this legislation will bring order to what he described as a chaotic NIL landscape.

The SCORE Act aims to address legal uncertainties by reaffirming the student-first model, defending Olympic sports, shielding athletes from exploitation, establishing regulatory authority, and improving transparency.