Hawaii Senate Bill SB2616

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/24
• Refer: 1/24/24

Caption

Relating To High School Athletics.

Impact

The bill seeks to amend existing statutes under Chapter 302A of the Hawaii Revised Statutes by preventing any public or private high school from imposing limitations on student-athletes related to NIL compensation. It also extends to athletic associations and conferences, effectively barring them from hindering students' ability to monetize their personal brand. Additionally, the Act stipulates that any professional representation sought by student-athletes must be from licensed individuals, thereby establishing regulatory standards for agent interactions.

Summary

SB2616 is a proposed Act aimed at modernizing and regulating the landscape for high school athletics in Hawaii, specifically concerning the rights of student-athletes. This legislation authorizes both public and private high school students participating in athletics to earn compensation from the use of their name, image, or likeness (NIL). Importantly, the bill ensures that earning such compensation does not affect a student's eligibility for scholarships, thus providing a significant financial opportunity for student-athletes.

Contention

While the bill has potential benefits for student-athletes, it may also introduce points of contention among various stakeholders, particularly regarding how schools and athletic associations will adapt to these new rights. Concerns also arise about the potential for imbalanced advantages, where more prominent athletes might secure disproportionate compensation compared to their peers, leading to inequities in the athletic programs. The bill is set to repeal on January 1, 2030, suggesting that it is designed as a trial measure, allowing for evaluations and adjustments based on the outcomes observed during its enactment.