The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee advanced the Protect College Sports Act of 2026 on June 18 in a 19–9 vote. The bill, which aims to overhaul college athletics, now moves to a full Senate vote. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), the bill's sponsors, emphasized its potential to address challenges in college sports, including athlete compensation and conference power dynamics.
Opposition from Major Conferences: The SEC and Big Ten, two of the most powerful college sports conferences, released a joint statement opposing the bill. They argued that the legislation, in its current form, lacks essential revisions for the long-term sustainability of college athletics. The conferences have worked with lawmakers to propose changes but have not secured their support.
Support from Other Leagues: While the SEC and Big Ten oppose the bill, other leagues and athlete advocacy groups have expressed support. The bill's sponsors argue it will prevent the wealthiest conferences from dictating policies for all 500,000 college athletes.
Key Provisions: The bill includes measures to enhance athlete rights, including compensation and transfer policies. It also seeks to limit the influence of the most financially dominant conferences in shaping national college sports policies.