After the Big Ten and SEC conferences agreed to support the "Protect College Sports Act" following intense negotiations, congressional leaders have released the final text of the legislation. The bipartisan bill, introduced by Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), has been a focal point in college athletics discussions over the past week.

On Monday, August 4, 2026, President Donald Trump expressed hope during an Oval Office meeting that the Senate would soon hold a floor vote on the bill, which has faced contentious moments behind the scenes. However, political hurdles and the approaching midterm elections could delay action into September, potentially jeopardizing the bill's passage.

Senator Cruz has urged the Senate to stay in Washington until the legislation passes. The bill includes provisions such as a retention pool allowing schools to use $22.5 million for retaining players and an additional $5 million allocated for women’s and Olympic sports. The so-called "Lane Kiffin Rule," which restricts head coaches from immediately assuming coaching duties at another institution if they violate certain sections, remains in the bill with strengthened penalties.

Sources reported that White House officials and members of Trump's college sports committee have been actively involved in discussions to advance the bill to the Senate floor. The legislation defines "covered conferences" as institutions that, within the past five years, have competed in intercollegiate football and reported over $700 million in revenue on their 2025 or subsequent tax returns.

While other conferences had already supported the bill, the SEC and Big Ten sought concessions before lending their approval. Delays in voting could arise as congressional leaders focus on other priorities, including midterm elections and national issues.

Sources