The Protect College Sports Act, a proposed bipartisan bill, seeks to create a framework for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies within the NCAA. Despite support from both sides of the political spectrum, the bill also faces criticism over perceived loopholes, mainly regarding Title IX.
Senators Ted Cruz of Texas and Maria Cantwell of Washington attended a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee roundtable to discuss the bill in June 2026. Critics like Riley Gaines and Missouri Senator Josh Hawley have expressed their concerns on social media.
Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri addressed these concerns during an appearance on “Don’t @ Me with Dan Dakich.” He assured listeners that the bill does not override Title IX, stating, “There’s specific language in there that protects civil rights laws of states. There’s no preemption there. And it specifically says this doesn’t change or modify title nine at all.”
“This is a really important bill to kind of calm the chaos that we’ve got in college sports,” Senator Schmitt emphasized, referencing issues such as unlimited transfers and age disparities among players.
As the Senate approaches a recess, the urgency to pass the bill increases. Concerns revolve around the state of affairs in college athletics, which many see as chaotic.
Senator Hawley, joined by other Republicans like former Auburn head coach Senator Tommy Tuberville, has filed an amendment to prevent the bill from affecting state women’s sports laws.
Debate continues among GOP Senators on the future of the Protect College Sports Act. The discussions are expected to remain intense in the coming weeks.
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