Indiana lawmakers review high school NIL regulations

The Indiana Interim Study Committee on Education met to discuss potential legislative guardrails and academic requirements regarding name, image, and likeness (NIL) for high school athletes. Lawmakers are considering financial literacy programs to assist student-athletes and their families in managing compensation.

The Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) has already implemented rules for “Personal Branding Activity” (PBA), which allows athletes to monetize their NIL. Current restrictions prohibit athletes from wearing school uniforms, mentioning their team names, or promoting alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, gambling, weapons, or sexually explicit content in advertisements.

IHSAA Commissioner Paul Neidig reported that 54 student-athletes in Indiana have already entered into PBA deals, which range from apparel endorsements to social media promotions. While the IHSAA does not approve individual deals, students must report these activities to their schools for monitoring. No legislative action was taken during the recent committee meeting.