Sports Debate Topic and Info Slide

Resolved: The harms of allowing Texas high school athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness outweigh the benefits.

Info Slide: NIL Laws in Texas

In 2025, the Texas Legislature passed House Bill 126, expanding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights for student-athletes. Under this law, athletes who are 17 or older may sign NIL agreements after enrolling in college or when no longer competing under UIL eligibility.
The University Interscholastic League (UIL) still prohibits current high school athletes from signing NIL contracts while they are competing for their schools.
Supporters argue NIL rights reward hard work and teach financial literacy. Critics warn they could commercialize high school sports, create inequality, and expose students to exploitation.