The Southeastern Conference and Big Ten have agreed to back the ‘Protect College Sports Act’ following days of intense negotiations. The legislation, which aims to address issues in college athletics, nearly stalled amid disagreements and looming legislative deadlines, according to sources familiar with the talks.
Negotiations involved multiple parties, including senators, White House officials, and conference leaders. Senators Ted Cruz, R-Texas, Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., and Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., led efforts to craft a bipartisan bill supported by major college sports stakeholders. Senator Cantwell told OutKick-Fox News that progress was now possible in protecting women and Olympic athletes and moving the bill toward President Trump’s desk.
Throughout the week, conference officials, including Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti and SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey, maintained close communication. They held multiple calls, including a notable conference call Thursday afternoon involving the SEC, Big 12, and ACC. The urgency was driven by the upcoming Senate recess, with lawmakers racing to schedule a vote before leaving town.
White House officials, including members of President Trump’s college sports committee, were involved in discussions. A White House official told OutKick-Fox News that President Trump is committed to saving college sports and supports passing the legislation. Sources said efforts included high-level coordination to reach an agreement that would satisfy both conferences and congressional leaders.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed concern about the limited time remaining, raising the stakes for a swift resolution. By Friday evening, supporters believed they had met key deadlines, allowing the bill to advance to a Senate cloture vote as early as Monday or Tuesday. If successful, the legislation could pass before lawmakers depart for their summer recess, which begins next week.
The legislation includes measures to close loopholes related to NIL deals and funding for athletic departments. However, some college presidents emphasized the importance of balancing athletic priorities with broader campus concerns. As the clock wound down, supporters worked tirelessly to secure enough backing from the SEC and Big Ten to bring the bill to a vote, with Senate leaders aiming to act before the recess. The outcome remains uncertain, but optimism has increased that the bill could soon reach the House for final approval.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
