New York Assembly Bill A10964

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/14/26
• Refer: 4/14/26

Caption

Refines conditions for name, image, and likeness compensation agreements involving student-athletes and prospective student-athletes.

Impact

The legislation will have a significant impact on state laws regarding student-athlete rights, allowing for greater freedom in how they engage with sponsors and market their personal brands. It ensures that any agreement or contract made by a student-athlete must be in writing, disclose key financial terms, and provide clear rights for termination and conflict resolution. The bill also underscores the need for educational institutions to support student-athletes through financial literacy and mental health programs, thus addressing not just the financial aspects but the holistic wellbeing of student-athletes.

Summary

Bill A10964 aims to refine the conditions under which student-athletes can earn compensation from their name, image, and likeness (NIL). It amends existing educational laws in New York, providing clearer guidelines for contracts between student-athletes and athlete agents or advisors. The bill emphasizes that student-athletes should not face limitations imposed by colleges or collegiate athletic associations in their ability to earn from their NILs, except where specifically permitted under the law. By doing so, it seeks to ensure that students can capitalize on their marketability without facing undue restrictions.

Contention

Despite its intent to empower student-athletes, the bill has drawn some contention regarding the balance of authority between colleges and student-athletes. Critics argue that while the intention is to protect student-athletes, colleges may still find ways to impose restrictions through team contracts or institutional policies. Additionally, the necessity for clear conflict resolution processes is highlighted, as ambiguities could lead to disputes about what constitutes a conflict of interest in NIL agreements, especially when institutional sponsorships are involved. Ensuring that existing protections for student-athletes are not undermined in the face of commercialization pressures remains a critical concern.