Student Compensation and Opportunity through Rights and Endorsements Act; SCORE Act
Summary
The SCORE Act aims to establish federal standards for student-athlete compensation related to their name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights. It seeks to protect these rights, promote fair competition in intercollegiate athletics, and preempt state laws in this area. The bill defines key terms like 'agent,' 'compensation,' and 'interstate intercollegiate athletic association' to provide a clear legal framework.
Expected Effects
The act would allow student-athletes to profit from their NIL rights while setting guidelines to prevent prohibited compensation and ensure fair competition. It also mandates certain institutions to provide enhanced support and benefits to student-athletes. The act also seeks to provide more transparency regarding student athletic fees.
Potential Benefits
- Provides student-athletes with the right to enter into NIL agreements.
- Establishes a framework for agent representation of student-athletes.
- Requires certain institutions to provide comprehensive academic and career counseling services.
- Mandates medical and health benefits for student-athletes, including long-term care for injuries.
- Promotes transparency in student athletic fees.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could create disparities between institutions with varying resources.
- May lead to increased complexity in compliance and enforcement.
- Potential for exploitation of student-athletes if regulations are not strictly enforced.
- Could impact the amateurism model of college sports.
- Preemption of state laws may limit flexibility and innovation at the state level.
Constitutional Alignment
The SCORE Act's alignment with the Constitution is primarily based on Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). By establishing uniform standards for NIL rights, the act aims to prevent a patchwork of state laws that could impede the flow of commerce in intercollegiate athletics. The First Amendment's protection of freedom of speech could also be relevant, as NIL rights involve the commercial use of an individual's identity.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).