Louisville, UK athletic leaders call NIL bill a win for student athletes

FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) — Athletic leadership from the University of Kentucky and University of Louisville teamed up in Frankfort on Thursday to discuss the future of name, image, and likeness (NIL) legislature in Kentucky.

Senate Bill 3 aims to modernize the state’s NIL laws, keeping Kentucky universities competitive as federal policies evolve.

Lawmakers said SB 3 would align the state’s NIL plan with national fair market value standards, strengthen recruiting and retention, and add contract protections for student athletes.

“We have to be ready now,” UK Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart said. “For our staff, it’s important to give them time to prepare not only during the upcoming 3 months, but as we go forward as of July 1.”

Athletic directors from both colleges supported the bill, calling it a win for those who want to play at the college level.

“We’ve collaborated on this to ensure we’re doing what’s best for our student athletes, that we’re doing what’s best for the Commonwealth, and we’re doing what’s best for our institutions,” Josh Herid, University of Louisville Athletics Director, said.

SB 3 is set to go before the Senate floor on March 4. More information about the bill can be found at the Kentucky General Assembly website.