Governor Whitmer signs bills allowing college athletes in Michigan to earn money with name, image and likeness

LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed two bills that will allow college athletes in Michigan to earn money under their own name, image, likeness and reputation.

“For years, we have all enjoyed the incredible talent of young athletes from across the state. This legislation will change the lives of boys and girls in the years to come, ”said Whitmer.

Michigan is among the first states to allow student athletes to receive such compensation. It is the first time in the history of the state that college players can benefit financially from their sport while attending school.

Accounts allow players of any sport in all divisions to use agents to earn money with their own image, name or likeness. But students cannot enter into clothing contracts that conflict with their school’s clothing contracts.

Student athletes they must also disclose contracts to their schools before signing them.

Accounts do not give players the right to use trademark names, symbols, intellectual property or logos from schools, associations or conferences.

“I am proud to sign this bipartisan legislation today on behalf of our current and future student athletes,” said Whitmer. “I am hopeful that the NCAA will establish a national standard so that all participants in the country have the same opportunities.”

“In essence, this legislation is to ensure that student-athletes in Michigan are treated fairly and can have a satisfactory university experience,” said Rep. Joe Tate (D-Detroit). I am proud of the opportunity to work to bring this legislation to the finish line. “

House Bill 5217 prevents higher education institutions from imposing rules that prohibit student athletes from profiting through promotional agreements.

Students can now receive compensation for their name, image or likeness and cannot be prevented from playing intercollegiate sports or receiving scholarships as a result.

The project was sponsored by Rep. Brandt Iden (R-Kalamazoo).

House Bill 5218 repeals a section of the Penal Code that prohibits sports agents from inducing students to contracts before their eligibility for university athletics expires.

The bill also repeals a section of the Revised Judicature Law, which creates civil liability for interfering with the “potential advantage” granted by a higher education institution by virtue of its relationship with the student athlete, by promising an inappropriate gift or service to the athlete , if the gift results in prejudice to the school. The project was sponsored by Tate.

The accounts will take effect on December 31, 2022, except for a reporting requirement in Section 9, which took effect immediately.