Alabama Lawmaker Files Bill to Allow NIL for High School Athletes
An Alabama lawmaker pre-filed a bill that would permit high school athletes to make money off their name, image, and likeness.
Sponsored by State Representative Jeremy Gray, the lawmaker fears that if Alabama does not pass the bill, top high school athletes may relocate to other states.
"If I had a kid and he or she was actually good at sports and they could get compensated for their NIL, I would leave in a hurry," says Representative Gray. "Say Florida was to do it, it would affect the Mobile Area as well. Let's not be the 40th or 50th state to opt in, lets opt in now."
At least 30 states and the District of Columbia have passed NIL legislation that allow high school athletes to profit from their NIL. The proposed legislation carries stringent limitations, a customary feature for high school NIL bills.
"Prior to receiving compensation, a student athlete and a parent or legal guardian of the student athlete shall receive professional guidance as to the potential impacts and consequences of receiving the compensation, including collegiate financial aid and tax implications," the bill states.
In addition, the bill requires student-athletes or parents/legal guardians to notify their principal or athletic director "no less than seven days prior to entering into" a NIL deal.
Alabama was among the first states in July 2021 to pass a NIL law; however, it was later repealed in 2022. The state's lawmakers did not want to have more restrictive NIL rules than other states, which would potentially disadvantage them in the recruiting process.
Introducing a high school NIL bill appears to be another step by Alabama lawmakers to ensure their athletes remain competitive on a national level.
