Florida Makes Change to NIL Law: What you need to know

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill making a big change to how NIL is done in the state

Universities in the state of Florida can now directly take part in name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities for student athletes.

That's after Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill amending the state's previous practice, a week after the Florida Senate voted unanimously in favor of new NIL language that allows schools to assist in NIL discussions.

So, this just happened! 🖊️@GovRonDeSantis and Florida continue to lead in collegiate athletics and we are the leader in providing the best education and preparation for our athletes, from financial literacy to entrepreneurship training. They’ll be ready to built their brand. #NIL pic.twitter.com/6AooCDyPiT

— Chip LaMarca❗️ (@ChipLaMarca) February 16, 2023

What changed? Prior to this bill being signed, schools or coaches in Florida were not allowed to be directly involved with NIL deals for athletes, rules that were seen as more strict than in other states.

What it means: The law strikes down the restrictions on schools or coaches in facilitating NIL deals, allowing programs in Florida to work under rules comparable to states with less restrictive NIL measures in place.

Coaches protected: The new measure also implements liability protection for coaches in case they have to bench or suspend players so to not open them to lawsuits if their decisions are seen to effect the player's NIL deals.

Still no pay for play: College athletes are still very much amateurs as schools are still prohibited from paying players directly, but the change allows for coaches to be more involved in obtaining NIL deals for players.

What they're saying: Sports lawyer and university professor Darren Heitner said the move means "no more prohibition on schools 'causing compensation' and a major emphasis on educating athletes to set them up for success."

Dignitaries in attendance: Present to watch Gov. DeSantis sign the bill in person were several names well known to football fans in the state including Florida head coach Billy Napier, Florida State coach Mike Norvell, and Seminoles quarterback Jordan Travis.

More: NIL in college football: What you need to know

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