Education across the country

The NEAUX PROS Act prohibits colleges that receive federal student aid from allowing individuals who hold active professional sports contracts to compete in intercollegiate athletics in the same sport. To enforce this rule, the bill conditions continued eligibility for Title IV federal funding on institutions ensuring they do not permit such dual participation, with violations subject to standard financial aid enforcement actions like suspension or termination of funds. The legislation also creates a new federal criminal offense for athletics officials who knowingly recruit or sign professional athletes, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison, or ten years if the act was done for financial gain or as part of a pattern. Individuals may avoid being classified as professional athletes by rescinding their contracts in writing before receiving any compensation or providing athletic services under those agreements.