ACC Commissioner addresses member concerns over college sports legislation

Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Commissioner Jim Phillips addressed the league's stance on the Protect College Sports Act during recent media days. While 14 member institutions support the legislation, four schools—Clemson, Florida State, Miami, and North Carolina—have expressed concerns regarding specific provisions.

These four schools submitted a letter to the House of Representatives requesting amendments to Section 205 of the bill. Their primary objectives include increasing the conference membership cap from 20 to 22 institutions and removing the requirement for an institution to remain independent for three years before joining a new conference. The schools argue that the current independence requirement imposes significant consequences on institutions that have already negotiated financial exit terms.

Phillips stated that his directive is to serve the membership and facilitate conversations with decision-makers. He noted that the bill has already passed the Senate and is moving toward the House, though its final form may be influenced by upcoming elections.