Senators Skinner and Bradford Issue Statement on NCAA’s Announcement on Name, Image, and Likeness

State Senators Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, and Steven Bradford, D-Gardena, released the following statements on the NCAA Board of Governors’ announcement today on “enhancing name, image, and likeness opportunities” for college athletes.

“California’s leadership is a game-changer once again! The Legislature and Gov. Newsom’s support of SB 206 clearly pushed the NCAA to take this step,” Skinner said. “I’m pleased that the NCAA’s announcement shows promise on student athletes getting name, image, and likeness rights, however the devil will be in the details. Here in California, we are clear that we won’t accept arbitrary limitations and look forward to the NCAA’s final action being consistent with the right all other students have to generate income from their talent and skills.”

“I applaud the NCAA Board of Governors who made the right decision to support our student athletes, not just in California, but across the U.S.,” Bradford said. “While I question whether or not this special committee and vote would have occurred if our bill was not introduced and passed by the Legislature, this is nonetheless a major step forward bringing about greater equity and fairness to a system that generates billions off of the backs of our talented and hardworking athletes.”   

Skinner and Bradford were joint authors of Senate Bill 206, known as the Fair Pay to Play Act. It was approved by both the Assembly and Senate with bipartisan support and signed into law on Sept. 27.  This bill will give California student athletes the right to their name, image, and likeness, allowing them to earn money from sponsorships, endorsements, and other activities.

Sen. Nancy Skinner represents the 9th Senate District and is the Senate majority whip.

Photo: Senators Bradford and Skinner with former Stanford volleyball star Hayley Hodson and LA Chargers star Russell Okung.