Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed a historic executive order this week that temporarily protects the state’s colleges and universities from any Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) violations, amid ongoing uncertainty about what is and isn’t allowed.
Under the order, the NCAA is prohibited from taking any “adverse action” against schools in the state for NIL-related issues. Adverse actions include sanctions, fines, bowl bans, or other penalties.
“Neither the NCAA, an athletic conference, nor any other organization with authority over collegiate athletics shall take any adverse action against a post-secondary educational institution in the State of Georgia,” the executive order states, “for such institution facilitating compensation, offering compensation, or compensating an intercollegiate student-athlete for the use of such student-athlete’s NIL.”
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The order also stipulates that state funds cannot be used for NIL-related spending. As soon as Kemp put pen to paper, the order became law until any sort of federal legislation is passed.
Georgia and Georgia Tech’s Athletic Directors issued a joint statement praising the Governor for the decision.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to Governor Brian Kemp for his leadership today. In the absence of nationwide name, image and likeness regulation, this executive order helps our institutions with the necessary tools to fully support our student-athletes in their pursuit of NIL opportunities, remain competitive with our peers and secure the long-term success of our athletics programs,” the statement read.
Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.
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