The proposed bill amends the Nebraska Student-Athlete Name, Image, or Likeness Rights Act to enhance protections for student-athletes regarding their ability to earn compensation from their name, image, or likeness. Key insertions include definitions for "agency agreement," "name, image, or likeness collective," and "third party," which clarify the roles of athlete agents and the entities involved in compensating student-athletes. The bill allows student-athletes to enter into agency agreements without incurring unacknowledged fees and permits them to rescind such agreements within a specified timeframe. It also prohibits postsecondary institutions from imposing contracts or regulations that restrict student-athletes from earning compensation or participating in intercollegiate sports, and it ensures that any compensation earned does not affect their eligibility for athletic grants or scholarships, except for need-based financial aid calculations.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for contracts involving compensation for student-athletes, mandating written agreements that detail payment terms and obligations. It establishes regulations for athlete agents, including legal criteria they must meet and a prohibition on providing upfront payments to student-athletes. The legislation allows for civil actions against institutions or associations that violate the act, entitling plaintiffs to damages and legal fees. Overall, the bill aims to create a more equitable environment for student-athletes in Nebraska by safeguarding their rights to monetize their personal brand while ensuring transparency and fairness in the process.

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