Assembly Passes New York Collegiate Athletic Participation Compensation Act

Speaker Carl Heastie and Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages today announced that the Assembly has passed the New York Collegiate Athletic Participation Compensation Act, legislation that will ensure that student-athletes can receive compensation for the use of their name, image or likeness, as well as allow student-athletes to obtain professional representation (A.5115-E, Solages).

“Student-athletes shouldn’t have to choose between completing their education or leaving school early to go pro in order to help financially support themselves or their families,” Speaker Heastie said. “This bill will keep schools from penalizing students for earning money from the use of their name or likeness, while the school continues to make millions off their athletics programs in ticket sales and merchandise.”

“Across this country, colleges and universities have brought in millions of dollars on the blood, sweat and tears of their student-athletes,” Assemblymember Solages said. “It’s time these talented young people are financially compensated. This bill will allow hardworking student-athletes to earn endorsements while competing at the collegiate level and completing their education.”

The New York Collegiate Athletic Participation Compensation Act would prevent schools in New York State from revoking scholarships due to a student-athlete making money from endorsements. It would also allow players to use an attorney or agent for deals related to their name, image or likeness without being punished by the school. Collegiate athletic programs can make millions of dollars for their college or university, profiting from the hard work of student-athletes. This legislation is especially important for students for whom athletics and a career in professional sports is a way to move themselves and their families out of poverty. This will allow more student-athletes to complete their degrees before going on to a professional career.