President Donald Trump has urged the Senate to pass the Protect College Sports Act before its current session concludes. The bipartisan legislation, which has recently gained additional co-sponsors, aims to address various aspects of college athletics.
The bill’s latest version introduces changes to conference realignment, specifically capping the number of members in the Big Ten, SEC, ACC, and Big 12 at 19 teams each. This marks a shift from an earlier proposal that could have completely halted expansion for the SEC and Big Ten conferences. Under the new bill, a Power 4 team would be required to operate as an independent for five years before being eligible to join another Power 4 league, a period some administrators have described as “conference purgatory.” However, Group of 6 teams would retain the flexibility to move up without such restrictions.
The Protect College Sports Act, a 171-page document, was sent to senators late on Monday, August 3, and into the morning of Tuesday, August 4. The language within the bill is subject to potential changes and interpretation as it moves through the legislative process.
Legislative Push and Opposition
In a social media post on Friday, August 7, President Trump emphasized the importance of the bill, stating that without it, “millions of young Athletes will be hurt, programs will be canceled, Women’s and Olympic Sports will go away, the fans will be robbed, and Universities will go broke.” He also asserted that the bill protects laws in 27 states concerning women’s sports.
The legislation has seen growing support, with Senators John Hickenlooper (D-Col.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) recently joining as co-sponsors. Other initial co-sponsors include Senators Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.). Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) have also become co-sponsors.
Despite the bipartisan support, the Congressional Black Caucus has voiced its opposition to the proposed legislation this week. During the debate on Friday, August 7, multiple senators also moved to add amendments to the bill.
Senator Cruz, on Thursday, August 9, urged his colleagues to advance the bill, noting that momentum for the Protect College Sports Act continues to build. He highlighted the backing of 28 collegiate conferences for the bill, calling it “our last best chance to preserve one of America’s great unifying traditions.”
Potential Conference Realignment Scenarios
If the bill becomes law, the Power 4 conferences would each have a maximum of 19 teams. For the Big Ten, with one spot potentially available, Notre Dame is a prominent discussion point due to its independent status and geographic fit. Other institutions mentioned for the Big Ten include North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia Tech, Florida State, and Clemson, with academic and athletic considerations playing a role.
The SEC could have three spots open. North Carolina and Virginia are considered potential targets due to academics and geography. Florida State and Clemson are also discussed as cultural fits, despite existing in states already represented in the SEC. Miami, with its recent football resurgence, is another candidate. Texas Tech is mentioned as a wild card, potentially able to bypass the independent requirement if the Big 12’s revenue has not yet reached the $700 million threshold specified in the bill.
For the ACC, which currently has two empty slots, the departure of teams like North Carolina, Virginia, and Miami could open up three more. The conference prioritizes broad athletic success and academic value. UConn, an independent program, is discussed as a potential addition due to its basketball success and improving football program. Other institutions like Tulane, South Florida, Memphis, Army, and Navy are also considered for their academic standing, athletic performance, or national brands.
The bill’s passage in the Senate would still require approval from the House of Representatives before it could be signed into law.
Source: eu.usatoday.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.