Congress Grapples with NIL Reform as College Athletes Voice Opposition

UCLA Quarterback Chase Griffin Testifies Against Proposed 'FAIR College Sports Act', Calls for Recognition of Athletes as Employees

UCLA quarterback Chase Griffin testified in Congress, opposing an NIL reform bill introduced by Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) and arguing against federal regulation of the NIL market.
Griffin argued that the proposed bill, the “FAIR College Sports Act,” would dissuade companies from striking NIL agreements and disproportionately hurt female athletes who profit off brand deals.
Griffin also suggested that football players “operate as employees currently” due to the effort and hours they put in every week, a point of contention in the proposed legislation.
Despite differences in opinion, both Republicans and Democrats agreed that Congress needs to address the issues raised by college athletes being able to make money from their name, image and likeness (NIL).
Rep. Lori Trahan (D-Mass.) suggested that a measure with an antitrust exemption or provision barring athletes from becoming school employees would not pass in the current Congressional session.