On April 3, 2026, President Trump issued an Executive Order titled Urgent National Action to Save College Sports, signaling increased federal attention on student-athlete compensation, eligibility, transfers, and name, image, and likeness (NIL) regulation. While the Order does not itself create new law or impose immediate regulatory changes, it reflects a policy push toward a more uniform national framework governing college athletics.
The Order comes amid continuing legal and legislative developments following NCAA v. Alston and the growing expansion of NIL opportunities, revenue sharing proposals, and transfer portal reforms. Framed as a response to mounting financial pressures in collegiate athletics and concerns over the sustainability of Olympic and women’s sports, the Order encourages Congress and governing bodies to pursue comprehensive reform.
Key Areas Addressed in the Executive Order
The Order directs federal agencies that provide grants to, or contract with, higher education institutions to evaluate compliance with governing body rules related to:
- Eligibility limitations
- Transfers between institutions
- Revenue sharing arrangements
- Certain “improper financial activities,” including fraudulent NIL schemes
It also encourages interstate intercollegiate athletic governing bodies to consider reforms addressing:
- Five-year eligibility limits, with limited exceptions
- Restrictions on multiple transfers
- Medical care protections for student-athletes
- Revenue sharing structures designed to preserve women’s and Olympic sports
- Prohibitions on certain pay-for-play arrangements
- Creation of a national student-athlete agent registry
The Order further calls for possible legal action challenging state laws that conflict with national athletic governance rules, raising potential federalism and Commerce Clause questions.
Potential Legal and Practical Implications
Although the Order outlines broad policy goals, it does not independently alter existing NIL rights, invalidate state statutes, or establish enforceable compensation rules. Any effort to implement portions of the Order through federal funding conditions or agency action could invite substantive and constitutional challenges.
Nevertheless, the Order may influence ongoing legislative proposals and contribute to momentum for a national solution to issues that have largely developed through litigation, state lawmaking, and institutional policy.
For universities, athletic departments, collectives, and student-athletes, the Order is another signal that the legal framework governing college athletics remains unsettled and continues to evolve.
Looking Ahead
Whether the Executive Order results in legislative action, regulatory developments, or further litigation remains to be seen. What is clear is that questions surrounding NIL, athlete compensation, transfers, and federal oversight will remain central issues in sports law.
Wingert Grebing Brubaker & Walshok LLP continues to monitor developments affecting collegiate athletics and the broader sports industry.
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Ana Claudia C. Guedes
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Mark A. Amador
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