Getting Paid While Playing

If you are a student athlete you have probably heard in the news that recently California Governor Gavin Newsom signed off on the Fair Pay to Play Act. This legislation takes effect in 2023 and will allow student athletes of California universities to profit off of their name, image, and likeness. Examples of this could include profit from autographs, jersey sales, and independent brand deals. This law will overrule NCAA policy which prohibits this behavior.

          This act has created gained so much traction because it makes California the first state to take action against this heavily scrutinized NCAA policy. In the past many had argued that a policy like this one would create more corruption among NCAA athletes and because of this believe that this is a step in the wrong direction. They oppose California’s recent Fair Pay to Play act as they feel it will create an unfair advantage for schools in California and in future states which allow athletes to profit from themselves. 

          On the other hand, professional athletes such as Richard Sherman and Draymond Green believe this is a much needed step in the right direction. Shortly after news broke Sherman was quoted saying, “I hope it destroys the NCAA in general because I think it's corrupt and it's a bunch of people taking advantage of kids,” (You can read more about what they had to say HERE). The NCAA is a multi billion dollar industry that profits off student representing their schools in athletics. Sherman believes it is only fair that students begin profiting off their themselves as well. He thinks that this is the right step because it is the first step to abolishing this rule once and for all.

          Do you think that the Fair Pay to Play Act is necessary? Do you think it will create future problems within the industry? Do you think that other states will follow in the footsteps of California?