Slaughter Champions Legislation to Allow Student Athletes to Sign Endorsement Deals

CHICAGO – College athletes in Illinois would be able to earn money from endorsement deals under legislation proposed 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 proposed House Bill 4086, which creates the Student Athlete Endorsement Act. The act would allow 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.”