COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN)--A bill has been introduced in Ohio that would allow student athletes at the state's colleges and universities to receive compensation for the use of their name, image, and likeness.
State Senator Niraj Antani was joined Monday by Ohio State Athletics Director Gene Smith to talk about the proposal, which Antani hopes to have fast-tracked in the legislature, and passed by July 1st.
It would allow student-athletes to sign contracts with companies, and allow them to hire representation. The student-athletes would be required to notify the college within 15-days of their intent to sign any deals.
The proposal prevents student-athletes from entering into contracts where they would be associated with marijuana, tobacco, alcohol, or casinos.
Antani says it would benefit more than just the elite athletes at large universities, like Ohio State. 16 other states have enacted similar legislation.