Autonomy Conferences Applaud Discussion Draft to Restore Stability in College Sports

WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 10, 2025) – In the wake of the recent college sports settlement, lawmakers have taken an important step to bring much-needed clarity, fairness, and national consistency to college athletics by issuing a discussion draft of the SCORE Act. The ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, and SEC issued the below statement applauding the growing momentum in Congress:

“This discussion draft comes at a time of historic transition for college athletics. In the absence of federal standards, student-athletes and schools have been forced to navigate a fractured regulatory framework for too long. Following the historic House settlement, this draft legislation represents a very encouraging step toward delivering the national clarity and accountability that college athletics desperately needs. We urge lawmakers to build on this momentum and deliver the national solution that athletes, coaches, and schools deserve.”

Key highlights of the SCORE ACT include:

• Replacing the confusing patchwork of state NIL laws with a national standard ensuring all student-athletes are treated fairly, no matter where they play

• Affirming student-athletes’ right to profit from their name, image, and likeness

• Requiring academic support and ensuring access to mental health and well-being resources for student-athletes

• Prohibiting student-athletes from being considered employees of an institution, conference, or athletic association 

• Protecting rules that serve the educational mission of college athletics

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