STATEMENT: Senator Blunt Rochester Opposes the Protect College Sports Act

U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) today released the following statement on S.4668, the Protect College Sports Act : “The landscape of college sports is changing by the day, and Congress undoubtedly has a responsibility to come together to find a path forward. However, while I appreciate the bipartisan work put into this bill, I remain concerned with it — especially in this moment. “Despite the bill providing a private right of action for student-athletes, it relies on individual athletes to enforce their rights through litigation. Student-athletes often have limited time, resources, and legal expertise. They should not bear primary responsibility for identifying violations and suing their schools or athletic programs to secure the protections provided by the bill. “I am also concerned that the bill would codify significant terms governing student-athletes’ compensation, transfers, and eligibility at a time when questions about athletes’ labor rights remain unsettled. Congress should not lock these terms into federal law in ways that could limit student-athletes’ ability to negotiate or collectively bargain over them in the future. “The adequacy of athlete protections has raised concerns for student-athletes, their families, civil rights organizations, labor organizations, and other athlete advocates, and should be fully considered as the legislation moves forward. I’m hopeful that Congress can come back together to find a solution that is fair and comprehensive for both universities and the students they serve.”