AROUND NIL | FEB 24, 2025

Texas lawmakers push to cap scholarships for international student-athletes

Feb. 23, 2025—State lawmakers are pushing to cap athletic scholarships for international student-athletes at Texas public colleges. The proposed bills, which would limit these scholarships to 25% of total awards, aim to protect educational opportunities for U.S. citizens. With nearly 25,000 international athletes in the NCAA—and among those, 26% of men and 37% of women in golf—the change could reshape recruitment. The bill is currently in committee, sparking intense debates about its potential impact. Meanwhile, international athletes are already grappling with issues related to NIL deals and visa restrictions. MORE

Scotland native and Texas Tech golfer Calum Scott at the 2024 Open Championship | PA Images/Alamy

New Florida bill sets 5% cap on fees charged by college agents

Feb. 27, 2025—Florida is making a bold move to protect college athletes with a new bill that would cap agent commissions at 5% of NIL earnings. Set to go into effect on July 1, House Bill 981 tackles growing concerns over agents charging outrageous fees.

"I filed HB 981 because student-athletes deserve the freedom to pursue their opportunities without being exploited by predatory agents," Rep. Yvette Benarroch stated in the filing. "Unfortunately, some agents have taken advantage of these young athletes, charging outrageous fees—sometimes up to 30% of their earnings—which strips them of the rewards they’ve rightfully earned through their talent and hard work."

As one of the first states to pass college athlete NIL legislation, Florida remains at the forefront of advocating for athlete rights. MORE