Kentucky 2025 Regular Session

Kentucky Senate Bill SB3

Introduced
2/18/25  
Refer
2/18/25  
Refer
2/20/25  
Report Pass
2/27/25  
Engrossed
3/5/25  
Refer
3/5/25  
Refer
3/5/25  
Report Pass
3/6/25  
Enrolled
3/11/25  
Enrolled
3/11/25  
Chaptered
3/13/25  

Caption

AN ACT relating to student-athletes and declaring an emergency.

Impact

The enactment of SB3 is poised to significantly impact how student-athletes are treated within Kentucky's postsecondary institutions. It clarifies that student-athletes can receive compensation for the use of their names, images, and likenesses, breaking ground on the conversation about the rights of student-athletes in the state. By establishing that NIL agreements are governed by state law, SB3 aims to promote consistency and fairness in how student-athletes engage with potential sponsors and partners, enhancing their opportunities for compensation while participating in athletics.

Summary

SB3, an act relating to student-athletes, seeks to establish guidelines and regulations for student-athlete compensation through name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreements within the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The legislation emphasizes that institutions and affiliated organizations cannot prevent student-athletes from earning compensation through such agreements. Additionally, institutions must provide a framework for these arrangements to ensure transparency and protect the rights of student-athletes while fostering fair compensation practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB3 appears largely supportive among student-athletes and advocates for their rights, as it represents a step toward equitable treatment in higher education and athletics. However, some stakeholders express concern that the legislation might lead to further commercialization of college sports, raising questions about its impact on amateurism and the overall integrity of intercollegiate athletics. The discourse reflects both enthusiasm for empowering student-athletes and apprehension about unintended consequences.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the discussions of SB3 include concerns about how NIL agreements may affect student-athlete eligibility, the potential for conflict with existing collegiate athletic association regulations, and the financial literacy education requirements for student-athletes. Critics argue that while compensation is vital, it must not detract from the educational experience or lead to disparities among athletes. The bill attempts to address these concerns by establishing reasonable restrictions and foster an environment that supports athletes' rights without compromising their primary educational objectives.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KY SB285

AN ACT relating to name, image, and likeness activities of intercollegiate student-athletes and declaring an emergency.

KY SB299

AN ACT relating to the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission and declaring an emergency.

KY HB360

AN ACT relating to fiscal matters and declaring an emergency.

KY SB145

AN ACT relating to interscholastic athletics.

KY HB396

AN ACT relating to interscholastic athletics.

KY HB9

AN ACT relating to postsecondary education and declaring an emergency.

KY HB421

AN ACT relating to public schools and declaring an emergency.

KY SB210

AN ACT relating to students.

KY SB5

AN ACT relating to education and declaring an emergency.

KY HB5

AN ACT relating to fiscal matters and declaring an emergency.

Similar Bills

KY SB6

AN ACT relating to athletics and declaring an emergency.

MO SB80

Creates and modifies provisions relating to sports

RI H7644

Allows college athletes and prospects to enter into contracts receive compensation for use of their name, image and likeness rights and would prohibit colleges and athletic associations from interfering with such compensation rights.

RI S2674

Allows college athletes and prospects to enter into contracts receive compensation for use of their name, image and likeness rights and would prohibit colleges and athletic associations from interfering with such compensation rights.

MS SB2417

Mississippi Intercollegiate Athletics Compensation Act and the Mississippi Uniform Agents Act; revise provisions of.

MS SB2517

"MS Intercollegiate Athletics Compensation Rights Act" and "Uniform Athletes Agent Act"; bring forward.

MS HB1198

"Uniform Athlete Agents Act"; revise to align agency requirement with provisions of the "MS Intercollegiate Athletics Compensation Rights Act."

MS HB1474

Student-athletes; revise various provisions under the Mississippi Intercollegiate Athletics Compensation Rights Act.