New Bill Could Let Michigan Athletes Bargain Like Employees

College athletes in Michigan might be getting more than just time on the field or court next school year. They could be getting workers’ rights.

State lawmakers have introduced a new bill that would officially recognize college athletes as public employees.

That may sound like it’s just a technicality that means nothing, but it could mark one of the biggest shifts in the world of college sports. Especially for the thousands of athletes playing at public universities across the state of Michigan.

Right now, student athletes are allowed to be paid for the first time thanks to recent changes that allow schools to directly compensate them through revenue sources like ticket sales.

But while the money has started to flow, the power to come to the table to negotiate hasn’t. College athletes still aren’t treated like regular employees of their universities, which means they don’t have the same right to bargain, unionize, or ask for better conditions.

Supporters of the bill (including current student athletes) say that needs to change. Being a college athlete is more than just a scholarship gig. It’s a full-time commitment packed with practices, games, travel, and pressure, often stacked on top of demanding academic schedules.

Giving athletes the ability to collectively bargain could help them push for better time management, health protections, and academic accommodations. And if nothing else, happy students and athletes, means better teams. So, everyone wins, right?

NEXT: Out of state plates that honor University of Michigan and Michigan State ⬇️
If passed and signed into law by Governor Whitmer, this would add to the growing list of changes to college athletics across the country. This bill could be the next big move in finally treating them not just like players, but like employees, too.