The Senate voted overwhelmingly to approve legislation aimed at stabilizing the collegiate sports landscape amid ongoing litigation over player eligibility and compensation rules. The bill's fate is uncertain in the House, with passage occurring in one of the final congressional actions before the legislative session ended.
The Senate passed the Protect College Sports Act on Monday with strong bipartisan backing, with supporters including the NCAA arguing it will address fairness and equity concerns during an era of rapid litigation over eligibility rules. The bill aims to replace what advocates call a "Wild West" period in college athletics governance.
The U.S. Senate on September 15, 2026 voted to advance the Protect College Sports Act, a bipartisan bill backed by the NCAA aimed at establishing federal guidelines for college athletics. The bill addresses concerns about spiraling spending, lawsuits, and an unregulated transfer portal.