College, Union Lobbyists Spar Over Student Athlete Legislation

Colleges and athletic conferences are locked in a high-stakes fight on Capitol Hill over potential federal rules for star student athletes to profit off their name, image, and likeness.

Those pushing for the legislation (H.R. 4312) have never been closer, as House Republicans say they may bring it for a floor vote soon. But they’re grappling with partisan conflict, labor union opposition, concern about the future of non-revenue generating sports, and disagreement between big and smaller schools that may scuttle the action.

Some Democrats and unions say the NCAA wants the legislation to shield them from more antitrust ...