Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to establish a requirement for written contracts concerning college athletes' rights, specifically regarding their name, image, and likeness. The bill amends Section 20-1-232 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to define "student-athlete rights" and stipulates that postsecondary institutions cannot restrict or penalize student-athletes for exercising these rights. Additionally, it mandates that any contract related to a student-athlete's rights must comply with the written requirements outlined in Section 28-2-903 of the MCA. This section is also amended to include agreements related to college athletes' rights as a category that must be in writing to be valid.

The bill emphasizes the importance of transparency and compliance in contracts involving student-athletes, ensuring that they are protected while engaging in activities that could generate compensation. It also sets an effective date for the legislation to take effect on June 1, 2025. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the rights of student-athletes in Montana by formalizing the contractual process surrounding their name, image, and likeness.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 20-1-232, 28-2-903
SB0482_1(1): 20-1-232, 28-2-903
SB0482_1(2): 20-1-232, 28-2-903
SB0482_1(3): 20-1-232, 28-2-903
SB0482_1: 20-1-232, 28-2-903