US Senate advances Protect College Sports Act to overhaul NCAA rules

Senators Ted Cruz (R‑TX) and Maria Cantwell (D‑WA) have introduced the bipartisan Protect College Sports Act of 2026. The legislation would limit student‑athletes to one free transfer, tighten disclosure of name‑image‑likeness (NIL) earnings over $600, cap agent fees at 5%, and protect non‑revenue sports by requiring universities to maintain grant‑in‑aid opportunities.

The bill also proposes a “Lane Kiffin Rule” to prevent coaches from leaving mid‑season and seeks to reform revenue‑sharing arrangements under the Sports Broadcasting Act. The ACC, Big 12 and several other conferences have voiced support, while the SEC and Big Ten have expressed reservations.

The NFL Players Association and National Basketball Players Association sent a letter praising the bill’s NIL protections and proposed medical benefits, stating, “We encourage continued meaningful stakeholder engagement and negotiations to further strengthen the bill.” The unions emphasize that a stable college‑sports system benefits professional leagues.

Passage remains uncertain, requiring 60 Senate votes. Lawmakers have indicated willingness to amend the 111‑page measure as it moves through Congress.