Could Minnesota follow in California's footsteps in passing a controversial law allowing college athletes to make money of their likeness, name and image?
That's the hope of Republican Sen. Roger Chamberlain, who's drafted a bill that would open the door for Minnesota college athletes to make money off signing autographs or shoe deals, appearing in ads and more, as well as the ability hire an agent.
It's not a salary or pay-for-play. He says it's about fairness and ensuring athletes are not "exploited."
"It's not going to ruin amateurism," he told WCCO Radio. "That was gone a long time ago. Long time ago. There's no innocence here. It's a money business, and that's what this is about."
"To me, this is common sense. It got through California almost unanimously," he said.
U of M athletic director Mark Coyle said in a statement earlier this month they would work with the Big Ten on the issue, but administrators throughout the country, as well as the NCAA have been vocal critics. Opponents have decried its effect on the landscape and competitiveness of college athletics. Men's basketball coach Richard Pitino said he would support a similar measure.
Chamberlain, a self-described fan of college sports, knows it's a busy upcoming session with the bonding bill on the table, but he hopes it makes it to a committee and, eventually, to the governor's desk. Governor Tim Walz last month said he'd be "willing to look at" legislation.
If passed, the law would take effect in 2024.