When the NCAA investigates a college for rules violations, schools and athletes have limited formal protections. This bill would change that by requiring any major athletic association (defined as one with at least 900 member schools — essentially the NCAA) to follow specific due process rules. Schools would have to receive written notice within 60 days of an investigation starting, get detailed allegations within 8 months, and have a hearing within a year. Confidential sources couldn't be used as evidence. Schools could force disputes into binding arbitration with an independent panel. Violations of these rules could result in penalties from $10,000 to $15 million, enforced by the U.S. Attorney General.
Congressional Summary
NCAA Accountability Act of 2025This bill establishes due process and notice requirements for the investigations carried out by certain intercollegiate athletic associations and related organizations.Specifically, the requirements apply to interstate athletic associations, conferences, or other organizations with authority over intercollegiate athletics or that administer intercollegiate athletics and that have at least 900 member institutions. Such organizations must establish and administer due process requirements for the investigation of any member institution, student athlete enrolled in such member institution, or other individual for infractions of the athletic association's bylaws or failure to meet the conditions and obligations of membership.The Department of Justice must establish procedures for (1) individuals and entities to file complaints, (2) the investigation of complaints that have a substantial probability of validity, and (3) the investigation of other violations of this bill.
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- Senate
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Introduced in Senate
- Action Date
- 2025-03-11
- Date Added
- 2026-04-06