MontanaSB 48269th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)SenateWALLET

Revise contract laws relating to student athletes

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.

College athletes can earn NIL money

If you are a college athlete in Montana, you can earn money for your name, image, and likeness and hire an agent. Schools and athletic groups cannot stop you, punish you, or keep you from playing for using these rights. Your right does not include pay from your school. These protections start June 1, 2025.

School limits on NIL and conduct

Schools and athletic groups cannot pay you for your name, image, or likeness. Scholarship agreements may let the school use your name, image, and likeness. They may also block NIL use on campus or at school events. A school may manage your NIL contracts as your agent if the agreement allows it. Schools can still enforce conduct rules for all students. These rules start June 1, 2025.

NIL deals need school notice and checks

You cannot sign a paid NIL deal that conflicts with your team rules or a school contract. If you sign a paid NIL deal, tell a school official. If you are not yet on the team, disclose when you seek to join. If the school says there is a conflict, it must show you the exact rule or contract term. These rules start June 1, 2025.

NIL contracts must be in writing

Any NIL deal or related agreement must be in writing and signed to be valid. Without a signed writing or proper written memo, it is not enforceable or usable as evidence. This also applies to contracts made under the NIL rules. The writing rule takes effect June 1, 2025.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Ellie Boldman
Democrat • Senate

Cosponsors

Mark Thane
Democrat • House
Steve Fitzpatrick
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 290 • No: 7

Senate vote • 4/11/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 97 • No: 2

Senate vote • 4/10/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 98 • No: 1

Senate vote • 3/6/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 48 • No: 2