Name, image, and likeness refers to the ability for college athletes to earn money by becoming paid endorsers of commercial products and services. For years, any attempt to monetize would be enough to cost a student-athlete their career. Now, this commercial activity is authorized by the NCAA and allowed under the laws of most states.
In response to these changing rules, states have updated their laws to allow for this opportunity to earn a living with the help of a dedicated sports attorney. The laws are complex, but a New York City name, image, likeness lawyer has the skills and experience to advise you on this developing opportunity.
Under the NCAA’s current guidance, each state may establish its own guidelines for NIL money. If a legislature chooses not to act, it is up to each school to determine how it will handle this system. An amendment to the New York Education Law set the guidelines for how amateur athletes can earn money while in school.
Schools, colleges, and the NCAA cannot prohibit earning an income based on a person’s name, image, or likeness per the law. Standard opportunities under the law generally include brand promotions, appearances, and social media marketing.
What has not changed is that schools cannot compensate students directly. A university may still provide a scholarship based on the cost of attendance, and they can offer resources for facilitating NIL offers, but they cannot offer money directly. A NIL lawyer in New York City could ensure a student-athlete complies with state law when earning money through endorsements.
The laws related to an athlete’s name, image, and likeness are broad, but there are some restrictions to be aware of. The statute outlines certain situations where a player is prohibited from signing a NIL contract because it conflicts with another obligation or requirement.
For example, students may not sign a proposed NIL contract if the provisions would require them to violate their school’s code of conduct or team contract. The law also prohibits any agreement that might conflict directly with an existing sponsorship with the institution.
Some of these limitations target specific behavior. For example, a student-athlete cannot sign an agreement if it requires them to take action during team events or scheduled classes.
Little information exists on what amounts to a “conflict” under the current NIL law, which could leave the school with the power to resolve any disputes. An attorney in New York City could help resolve any of these NIL issues directly and help you navigate endorsement opportunities with confidence.
If you or the student in your life is exploring their endorsement options, now is a good time to consult with a lawyer for college athlete NIL legal support. A New York City name, image, likeness lawyer can answer questions about what is allowed under the NIL statute. Reach out as soon as possible to discuss your options during a confidential consultation how to monetize name, image, and likeness as a student-athlete.
