Should college athletes be able to cash in on their name and likeness? Marrero Republican Patrick Connick files a Senate bill that would allow compensation in Louisiana. Connick says one potential revenue stream is off merchandise sales.
“What they can be paid for is the use of their jerseys and those type of things. We don’t want to pay an athlete but we want them to at least benefit from the benefit that the university is getting,” said Connick.
The topic of financial benefit for students is a nationwide issue, with thirty other states filing legislation making the push for compensation. Connick says the legislation is vital for Louisiana schools to remain competitive.
“If California’s doing it and Alabama’s doing it, then those athletes that you know will be successful and have great name recognition will go to those universities to earn some kind of money to take care of their families and take care of their future,” said Connick.
Opponents say compensation taints the student-athlete culture. However, Connick says times have changed.
“These schools are making millions of dollars on these guys and I think it is fair to give them some kind of compensation for their efforts and for the work and the income they are bringing into the schools. Not to make them millionaires, but to treat them fairly,” said Connick.
NCAA rules currently restrict students from making any money.
