Senate Bill No. 200, also known as the "Make American Athletics Great Again Act," aims to impose restrictions on the compensation, rights, and athletic scholarships of international intercollegiate athletes in Louisiana. The bill defines an "international intercollegiate athlete" as a student who is not a U.S. citizen and is enrolled in a postsecondary institution while participating in an athletic program. It amends existing law to clarify that the provisions regarding athlete compensation do not apply to nonresident international student athletes unless they have obtained permanent legal status in the United States.

Additionally, the bill establishes limits on athletic scholarships awarded to international students, stating that no more than 25% of available scholarships for each athletic program roster can be granted to students who are citizens of foreign countries. It also prohibits international intercollegiate athletes from receiving scholarships if they have previously received any form of financial assistance from professional sports organizations. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
SB200 Original: 17:3702(4)
SB200 Engrossed: 17:3702(4)