Missouri House Bill HB1346

Missouri 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/23
• Refer: 4/5/23
• Report Pass: 4/25/23
• Refer: 5/8/23

Caption

Modifies provisions governing the compensation of student athletes

Notes

In this legislative journey, it is essential to keep track of how these changes influence the operational frameworks of collegiate athletics and whether there might be subsequent regulations to address any unforeseen implications arising from the bill's enactment.

Impact

The bill addresses significant changes in how postsecondary institutions manage their student athletes' rights and compensations. It prohibits institutions from enforcing any rules that would limit a student athlete's ability to earn money through commercial contracts, thereby opening pathways for financial opportunities beyond their athletic pursuits. Additionally, the bill ensures that student athletes are allowed to seek professional representation for contracts during negotiations, a move aimed at protecting their interests and ensuring that they are fairly compensated for their marketability.

Summary

House Bill 1346 aims to modify and clarify the provisions governing the compensation of student athletes at Missouri's postsecondary educational institutions. This legislation repeals the previous requirements that could restrict a student's ability to earn compensation from the use of their name, image, likeness, or athletic reputation. The bill intends to ensure that student athletes can engage in commercial activities without jeopardizing their eligibility for scholarships or participation in intercollegiate athletics. It emphasizes that financial gains from these activities must not penalize athletes in terms of grant-in-aid and stipends from their educational institutions.

Contention

Notably, the bill has sparked discussions around the balance of athlete compensation and the traditional model of college sports, where athletes have often been perceived as amateurs. Some concern revolves around how the influx of money for athletes could change the dynamics of college athletics and possibly create disparities within teams and programs. Further contention arises regarding the role of institutions in these agreements, particularly around the potential conflicts with existing contracts and sponsorships that schools may have.