Governor Whitmer signs bills that allow Michigan college athletes to make money with name, image and likeness

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed two bills that will allow Michigan college athletes to make money with their own name, image, likeness and reputation.

“For years we have enjoyed the incredible talent of young athletes from all over the state. This legislation will change the lives of young men and women for years to come, ”Whitmer said.

Michigan is among the first states that allowed sports students to obtain this compensation. It is the first time in the history of the state that college players can benefit financially from their sport while attending school.

Invoices allow players of any sport from all divisions to use agents to make 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.

Invoices do not give players the right to use trade names, symbols, intellectual property or logos of schools, associations or conferences.

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

“The core of this legislation is to ensure that Michigan student-athletes are treated fairly and can have a satisfying college experience,” said Rep. Joe Tate (D-Detroit). I am proud of the opportunity to work to get this legislation to the finish line. “

House Bill 5217 prevents post-secondary educational institutions from enforcing rules that prohibit sports students from making profits through promotional offers.

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

The bill was sponsored by Representative Brandt Iden (R-Kalamazoo).

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

The bill also repeals a section of the Revised Judiciary Act, which creates civil liability for interfering with the “potential advantage” given by a higher education institution by virtue of its relationship with the student-athlete, promising a improper gift or athlete service, if that gift causes injury at school. The bill was sponsored by Tate.

The invoices will take effect on December 31, 2022, except for the section 9 reporting requirement, which has taken effect immediately.