The bill amends Section 21-31-3 of the New Mexico Statutes to enhance the protections surrounding student athlete compensation. It establishes that all documents and records related to a student athlete's compensation for the use of their name, image, likeness, or athletic reputation are confidential and exempt from public inspection, except when disclosure is mandated for regulatory compliance. This aims to safeguard the privacy of student athletes while allowing them to benefit from their personal brand.

Additionally, the bill prohibits post-secondary educational institutions from enforcing rules that would penalize student athletes for receiving compensation from third parties or for engaging in activities related to their name, image, or likeness outside of official team obligations. It also clarifies that earning such compensation will not impact a student athlete's eligibility for grants-in-aid or stipends. The new provisions ensure that student athletes can freely engage in compensation opportunities without fear of institutional repercussions or loss of financial support.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 21-31-3