Memphis Standard

U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn and Cory Booker have introduced the NCAA Accountability Act, a bill aimed at establishing due process protections for student-athletes, coaches, and universities under investigation by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) for rule violations.

Senator Blackburn emphasized the need for consistency in NCAA investigations, stating, "The NCAA has an unacceptable history of backroom deliberations that unfairly punish athletes, coaches, and universities." She further added that the legislation aims to make the NCAA more accountable by ensuring fair expectations for rule violations.

Senator Booker echoed these sentiments by highlighting the importance of clear procedures during investigations. "College athletes, coaches, and universities deserve clear, consistent procedures during investigations of potential rule violations," he said. He described the legislation as a step toward fairness and transparency in college athletics.

The proposed NCAA Accountability Act outlines several key measures:

- It requires the NCAA to provide member universities with fair notice regarding enforcement proceedings. This includes information about investigation status, alleged violations, involved individuals and programs, potential penalties, and available rights and resources.

- The act mandates that any investigation be completed within one year after it begins.

- It prohibits public disclosure of information related to ongoing investigations until formal charges are filed.

To promote fairness and accountability:

- Member universities would have the right to resolve disputes through a three-person arbitration panel providing independent review.

- The NCAA must conduct its enforcement proceedings fairly and consistently with equitable penalties relative to infraction severity.

For enforcement:

- The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is directed to establish procedures to ensure compliance with this bill.

- The DOJ is authorized to fine or remove individuals from the NCAA's board if provisions are violated.

This legislation applies to any interstate athletic association or organization overseeing intercollegiate athletics with at least 900 member institutions.