The Protect College Sports Act, a bipartisan initiative, seeks to create a stable framework for NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) in the NCAA environment. While it has support from both political parties, some remain critical of its perceived loopholes, especially concerning Title IX. Senators Ted Cruz from Texas and Maria Cantwell from Washington participated in a Senate roundtable on the act and collegiate athletics on June 10, 2026.

Critics of the current version of the bill include Riley Gaines from OutKick and Missouri Senator Josh Hawley, who have shared their concerns on social media. Another Missouri Senator, Eric Schmitt, spoke on the ‘Don’t @ Me’ show with Dan Dakich to address worries about the act undermining Title IX.

“No, I couldn’t agree,” Schmitt responded. “A further review or a deeper look into the language would show that that’s just not true at all. There’s specific language in there that protects civil rights laws of states. There’s no preemption there. And it specifically says this doesn’t change or modify Title IX at all.”

Senator Schmitt expressed optimism about the bill’s momentum in Washington and the aim to act swiftly, possibly before the Senate’s recess. The urgency is driven by the disarray in college sports due to factors like unlimited transfers and age disparities among athletes.

Some Republicans, including Senator Josh Hawley and former Auburn head coach Senator Tommy Tuberville, have proposed an amendment to prevent the bill from overriding state laws on women’s sports. The Protect College Sports Act remains a contentious topic, with varying opinions and potential amendments shaping the future of college athletics governance.