US Senate passes landmark overhaul of college sports

The US Senate has approved a landmark federal framework for college sports by a vote of 72-22, marking a significant step in regulating the multibillion-dollar industry. The bipartisan Protect College Sports Act aims to establish national rules for athlete payments, restrict transfers, and provide limited protection from antitrust lawsuits for the NCAA.

The bill, which follows years of upheaval in college athletics, would allow schools to spend nearly $50 million annually on athlete compensation and health protections. It also extends long-term scholarship and healthcare benefits for athletes. While President Donald Trump supports the legislation, its passage has been met with mixed reactions.

Critics, including Democrats, racial equality activists, labor unions, and the Congressional Black Caucus, argue that the bill's antitrust protections give too much power to the NCAA and limit athletes' legal rights. The House of Representatives, currently in recess until after the midterm elections, will now consider the bill, potentially leading to further amendments before it can be sent to President Trump before the new Congress takes office in January.