Executive Order Signed by President Trump

On July 24, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order aimed at protecting college sports and the rights of student-athletes. This Order requires the preservation and possible expansion of scholarships and athletic opportunities, particularly for women and non-revenue sports. It prohibits third-party pay-for-play payments to collegiate athletes while allowing legitimate compensation for endorsements, with the goal of preserving the integrity of college athletics in a time of increasing legal challenges and financial pressures.

The Executive Order addresses concerns about the financial sustainability of non-revenue sports and the competitive balance among college teams. It recognizes that recent legal rulings and state laws regarding name, image, and likeness (NIL) payments have contributed to a confusing environment that could exploit student-athletes and jeopardize the structure of collegiate sports. The Order instructs various federal agencies to clarify the status of student-athletes and protect their rights, ensuring that the collegiate system remains distinct and supportive of all athletic programs.

Additionally, the Order reflects President Trump’s commitment to promoting American sports and their cultural significance. By reinforcing policies that ensure equal opportunities for women in sports, the Executive Order seeks to create a legacy of athletic excellence while addressing the pressing challenges facing college athletics. This initiative represents a substantial effort to stabilize the collegiate sports environment and uphold the values that characterize American sports.

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