Nichols-Backed Bill Allowing Student-Athletes to Sign Endorsement Deals Signed into Law

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – As part of his efforts to support Illinois students, state Rep. Cyril Nichols, D-Chicago, backed legislation that was recently signed into law that gives college student-athletes the ability to receive compensation from endorsement deals.

“As the Director of Athletics for one of the largest community college systems in the country, I understand the work that student-athletes put into their craft and the value they bring to their institutions,” said Nichols. “To prohibit them from reaping the rewards of their hard work and talent for no reason is disrespectful towards these students.”

Before the passage of this legislation, student-athletes were prohibited from making money off of the use of their name, image, likeness, or voice despite a study from the National College Players Association showing over 80% of college athletes living below the poverty line. To ensure that these students are able to receive payment for their hard work, Nichols voted in favor of Senate Bill 2338, allowing college student-athletes to receive monetary compensation from endorsement deals and hire agents.

“It is immoral to actively allow these students to struggle to get by financially while they are generating millions of dollars per year,” said Nichols. “No one gains from blocking student-athletes from being compensated from endorsement deals, and I am glad that this commonsense legislation to improve the lives of these talented athletes is now law.”