Nebraska 2025-2026 Regular Session

Nebraska Legislature Bill LB370

Introduced
1/16/25  

Caption

Change provisions of the Nebraska Student-Athlete Name, Image, or Likeness Rights Act

Impact

The passage of LB370 could significantly impact state laws regarding student-athletes by expanding their opportunities to engage in revenue-generating activities. This could include endorsement deals, advertisements, and various forms of partnerships that were previously restricted. Supporters of the bill argue that this change will empower athletes and provide them with financial support, which is increasingly recognized as necessary in the landscape of college sports. Additionally, it aims to ensure that Nebraska remains competitive with other states that have already adopted similar measures.

Summary

LB370 seeks to amend the Nebraska Student-Athlete Name, Image, or Likeness Rights Act, proposing changes that would potentially enhance the rights of student-athletes regarding the use of their personal identity in commercial contexts. The central focus of this bill appears to be ensuring that Nebraska student-athletes can capitalize on their name, image, and likeness rights without jeopardizing their eligibility for college athletics. Such a move is aligned with recent national trends accommodating student-athletes' financial advancements in collegiate sports, particularly following changes in NCAA policies surrounding NIL rights.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, LB370 has stirred discussions regarding the implications of such rights on college athletics as a whole. Some members of the community are concerned about the impact this could have on team dynamics and competition. For instance, the fear is that enabling student-athletes to profit from their likenesses might lead to disparities within teams, particularly if some athletes gain significantly more attention and resources than others. Furthermore, the bill's language and enforcement mechanisms may also be points of contention in the legislative discussions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NE LB1393

Change provisions relating to the combined tax rate under the Employment Security Law and the Nebraska Student-Athlete Name, Image, or Likeness Rights Act

NE LB235

Change provisions relating to the use of tax credits under the ImagiNE Nebraska Act

NE LB1410

Change provisions relating to tax incentives under the ImagiNE Nebraska Act

NE LB100

Change provisions relating to qualified locations under the ImagiNE Nebraska Act

NE LB544

Change provisions of the Nebraska Bingo Act

NE LB321

Change provisions of the Nebraska Pure Food Act

NE LB740

Change provisions of the Nebraska Pure Food Act

NE LB263

Change provisions of the Nebraska Hemp Farming Act

NE LB1061

Change provisions of the Nebraska Corn Resources Act

NE LB376

Change provisions of the Nebraska Liquor Control Act

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.