Legislation to update Kentucky’s Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) law for college student-athletes won unanimous approval from the Senate Education Committee on Thursday.
Senate Bill 3, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, grew out of changes in the college athletics landscape since the original legislation was enacted in 2022.
"The landscape of college athletics is evolving rapidly, and Kentucky must stay ahead to ensure our universities remain competitive,” Wise said. “SB 3 equips our schools with the tools to navigate these changes while protecting student-athletes and expanding their opportunities. This legislation is about preparation, fairness, and keeping Kentucky at the forefront of college sports."
Provisions include:
--Aligns state law with national fair market value standards to keep Kentucky competitive in recruiting and retention.
--Authorizing direct compensation agreements between universities and student-athletes, allowing participation in the expected NCAA settlement in the next couple of months.
--Permits sublicensing of NIL rights, expanding earning opportunities for student-athletes through third-party agreements.
--Establishes contract protections to safeguard athletes in NIL agreements.
--Includes an emergency provision, meaning it would take effect immediately upon passage.
University of Kentucky Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart testified in favor of the bill. “Our legislators and policymakers always answer the call when we reach out for help. With this proposal, Leader Max Wise and our legislators are doing so again. They are stepping up to lead in ways that will ensure our programs have the tools they need to be successful and that will help us support our student athletes.”
University of Louisville Athletics Director Josh Heird also expressed support for the measure. “Support from the state legislature is critical to the rise of our programs on the national stage and the changing national landscape of intercollegiate athletics being driven by the House settlement, and we are grateful to Sen. Wise for his support and advocacy of SB3, which will position the University of Louisville and our commonwealth peers for long-term success."
The two men added, they wouldn’t be surprised if more changes are needed, after the court case is resolved.
The bill now heads to the Senate floor.
From left, U of L Athletics Director Josh Heird, Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, and UK AD Mitch Barnhart discuss changes to the updates to Kentucky's NIL law during a committee hearing. It was approved and advances to the Senate floor. (Kentucky Today/Tom Latek)
