CHICAGO – College athletes in Illinois would be able to earn money from endorsement deals under legislation supported by state Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago.
“As a former college basketball player, I saw firsthand how many of our student athletes are facing pressure from all directions, including poverty, athletic and academic struggles,” said Slaughter. “It is not fair for multi-million dollar athletic programs to sustain themselves off the hard work of these dedicated athletes while they aren’t allowed to benefit from their own talent.”
Slaughter recently supported Senate Bill 2338, the Student-Athlete Endorsement Rights Act, which allows student athletes at Illinois’ public and private universities to receive compensation from endorsement deals. The bill also prevents universities and athletic conferences and associations from taking punitive action, including the revocation of scholarships, against students who seek or secure an endorsement deal.
“With soon-to-be college graduates facing the economic fallout of a pandemic, it’s absolutely critical that we advance measures that support our future leaders’ financial wellness,” said Slaughter. “We must be bold and be willing to advance legislation that promotes fairness and opportunity for all.”
Senate Bill 2338 passed both chambers of the General Assembly with strong bipartisan support and now heads to the governor for final approval.
Rep. Justin Slaughter
(D-Chicago)
27th District
Springfield Office:
249-E Stratton Office Building
Springfield, IL 62706
(217) 782-0010
(217) 782-1795 FAX
District Office:
1234 W. 95th St.
Chicago 60643
773-445-9700