Senate Passes Historic College Sports Regulation Bill
The Senate passed sweeping legislation on Sept. 28 that establishes federal rules for college athletics, including athlete payment caps, transfer restrictions, and protection for women's sports. The bill now heads to the House.
On September 28, 2026, the U.S. Senate passed the Protect College Sports Act by a 77–22 bipartisan vote, marking the first time Congress has approved comprehensive federal legislation governing college athletics. The bill, championed by Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), sets a national framework to regulate an industry transformed by recent payments to student athletes.
Key Provisions
- Athlete compensation limits: Schools may spend up to $50 million annually on athlete payments, with agent fees capped at 5 percent.
- Scholarship protections: 10-year scholarship guarantees after athletic eligibility ends.
- Transfer rules: Establishes uniform eligibility requirements and limits unrestricted transfers.
- Women's and Olympic sports: Schools must maintain a minimum number of sports to prevent cuts.
The legislation codifies a 2025 settlement that allowed colleges to directly pay players. If enacted, it would restore some NCAA enforcement power while creating transparency around payments and protecting athletes from predatory agents. The bill still requires House approval; the House is not expected to return from recess until mid-November.
For international students: If you are or plan to study at a U.S. college, this federal framework will reshape how athlete payments, scholarships, and student eligibility work nationwide. International athletes on scholarships should understand these new rules as they take effect.
Sources
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