Congressman Patronis Demands Answers from the ACC on Sports Betting Policies as the Conference Seeks Congressional Action on NIL

October 22, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jimmy Patronis (R-FL) sent a letter to ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips and the conference’s Board of Directors demanding transparency on online sports betting policies as the ACC seeks congressional action on NIL. To read the full letter, see below or click here. Dear Commissioner Phillips and Board of Directors, Normally, I don’t believe in involving the affairs of Congress with sports, and I like to maintain a separation between entertainment and policy. However, seeing as the ACC is asking Congress for help with NIL, I believe we must have transparency regarding each body’s policies and how they navigate online betting. As there has been discussion that the House will consider the Protect College Sports Act, I think it is important to better understand how conferences approach the phenomenon of online sports betting and how it could negatively impact their competitiveness. This is particularly relevant given that you are requesting special congressional authority and protections that other organizations don’t get. At your convenience, prior to Congress returning in November, please provide your policies as they relate to staff, referees, and other interested parties and their ability or limitations regarding online gambling. Seeing as we’ve entered a Wild West of sports betting, the risks have only increased. So, what is your conference doing to protect the integrity of the sports that families love? Sincerely, Jimmy Patronis Member of Congress ### Issues : Congress