MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WVDN) – Governor Patrick Morrisey today joined leaders from West Virginia University and members of the Legislature to celebrate the signing of two major bills that expand opportunities for student-athletes across the Mountain State.
Speaking at WVU alongside President Michael Benson and Athletic Director Wren Baker, Governor Morrisey emphasized the importance of empowering students to thrive both in the classroom and on the playing field.
“Student-athletes bring tremendous value to our universities and communities,” said Governor Morrisey. “These new laws ensure that our athletes can benefit from their hard work and personal brand while also protecting taxpayer dollars and maintaining the integrity of our schools.”
The first measure, HB 2595, authorizes higher education institutions to establish nonprofit entities to manage revenue-sharing and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for student-athletes. These nonprofits will be overseen by university employees, ensuring efficiency and accountability.
The second measure, HB 2576, the NIL Protection Act, provides a comprehensive legal framework for NIL in West Virginia. Among its provisions, the law:
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Allows student-athletes to receive NIL compensation from schools or third parties, and to retain legal or professional representation.
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Authorizes colleges and universities to engage in revenue sharing with athletes.
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Prohibits athletic associations from penalizing athletes for NIL activities.
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Protects taxpayers by prohibiting the use of legislative appropriations for NIL compensation.
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Restricts NIL deals involving harmful industries such as alcohol, gambling, cannabis, and adult content.
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Grants student-athletes and universities legal recourse if governing bodies take adverse action over NIL activities.
With this legislation, West Virginia joins more than 30 other states that have enacted NIL laws since 2021. The Governor noted that these changes will make West Virginia more competitive in recruiting athletes for WVU, Marshall, and other state institutions.
“This is about fairness, opportunity, and giving our student-athletes the tools to succeed,” said Governor Morrisey. “We are proud to stand with our universities and will continue working together to strengthen higher education and athletics in West Virginia.”
Governor Morrisey has more events planned at WVU leading up to the Backyard Brawl, including a speech to the Board of Governors on Friday and a Mountaineer Mile on Saturday Morning. Governor Morrisey will attend the game on Saturday afternoon and will flip the opening coin toss with Governor Josh Shapiro.
