The proposed bill amends the Nebraska Student-Athlete Name, Image, or Likeness Rights Act by redefining key terms and modifying provisions related to contracts for student-athletes' rights. It introduces new definitions for "agency agreement," "name, image, or likeness collective," and "third party," which clarify the relationships between student-athletes, athlete agents, and compensating entities. The bill allows student-athletes to enter into agency agreements and contracts for compensation, ensuring these agreements are limited to their participation in athletic programs. Additionally, it mandates postsecondary institutions to disclose contracts and support student-athlete activities, while prohibiting them from collecting commissions for facilitating these activities.

The bill enhances protections for student-athletes by preventing institutions from imposing contracts that restrict their ability to earn compensation or participate in sports. It also prohibits retaliation against student-athletes for engaging in authorized activities and ensures that compensation does not affect their eligibility for athletic grants, except in need-based financial aid calculations. Furthermore, the bill outlines requirements for written contracts detailing payment terms and establishes legal standards for athlete agents. It allows civil actions against institutions that violate the act and repeals inconsistent sections of existing law, streamlining the legal framework for student-athlete rights in Nebraska.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48-3601, 48-3602, 48-3603, 48-3604, 48-3605, 48-3606, 48-3608