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H 737

An Act relative to defending the autonomy and integrity of student athletes and coaches

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David DeCoste and 2 co-sponsors

H 737 - An Act relative to defending the autonomy and integrity of student athletes and coaches OverviewBill Number: H 737 Title: An Act relative to defending the autonomy and int

Hearing scheduled for 05/06/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in B-2
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Bill Summary · H 737

H 737 - An Act relative to defending the autonomy and integrity of student athletes and coaches

Overview

Bill Number: H 737
Title: An Act relative to defending the autonomy and integrity of student athletes and coaches
Status: Hearing scheduled for 05/06/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in B-2
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to protect the autonomy and integrity of student athletes and coaches at the high school and college levels. The legislation aims to prevent external interference or coercion that could undermine the ability of students and coaches to make decisions in the best interests of their athletic programs and personal development.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibits any person or organization from offering or providing improper benefits, payments, or incentives to student athletes or their families in exchange for athletic participation or performance
  • Bans coaches from being required to meet specific performance metrics or quotas related to team win-loss records, player statistics, or other quantitative measures
  • Establishes a Student-Athlete and Coach Autonomy Commission to investigate and enforce violations, with the power to levy fines and other penalties
  • Mandates that all high school and college athletic programs adopt a Student-Athlete and Coach Bill of Rights outlining protections and ethical standards

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would primarily impact high school and college student athletes, as well as their coaches and the athletic programs they are part of. The goal is to empower students and coaches to make decisions free from external pressures or incentives that could compromise the integrity of their athletic pursuits.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

H 737 is currently scheduled for a public hearing on May 6, 2025 before the relevant legislative committee. If passed by the committee, the bill would then proceed to a full vote in the state legislature. Supporters hope the legislation can be enacted before the start of the 2025-2026 academic year to provide protections for the upcoming athletic season.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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