KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — University of Tennessee Chancellor Donde Plowman is speaking out after a high-level meeting with lawmakers about the future of college athletics.
Plowman, who serves as chair of the Southeastern Conference presidents and chancellors, met with Senators Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell to discuss the proposed Protect College Sports Act.
The bill would place limits on how many times student-athletes can transfer schools and set a cap on how much money they can earn through name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals.
In a statement released Tuesday, Plowman described the meeting as a “productive dialogue” and said it highlighted a shared understanding of the need for a more stable and consistent system for college sports.
She emphasized the importance of creating a national framework that supports student-athletes while also giving schools and athletic programs clear rules to follow.
Plowman said leaders are pushing for federal legislation that includes consistent standards, reduced legal challenges, and alignment with ongoing revenue-sharing models.
The discussion follows a March roundtable hosted by President Donald Trump focusing on NIL and the evolving landscape of college athletics, which Plowman also attended.
SEC leaders say they plan to continue working with lawmakers to refine the legislation and ensure long-term stability for college sports.
