ATHENS — Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s deep-rooted passion for college football, particularly for his alma mater, the University of Georgia, was vividly evident on Tuesday when he signed a groundbreaking executive order. This move could revolutionize how college athletes are compensated in the state.
The new order paves the way for post-secondary institutions in Georgia to directly compensate their athletes through name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities. The aim, as outlined in the order, is to ensure that Georgia’s college athletes can “compete on a level playing field” and receive the same compensation benefits available to athletes in other states.
The executive order also seeks to shield Georgia’s athletic programs, including those at the University of Georgia and Georgia Tech, from “any adverse actions” that might be imposed by the NCAA, athletic conferences, or other governing bodies of intercollegiate athletics. This move underscores Kemp’s commitment to enhancing the competitive landscape for Georgia’s student-athletes and advancing their financial opportunities.
The order explicitly states that "neither the NCAA, an athletic conference, nor any other organization with authority over intercollegiate athletics shall take any adverse action against a postsecondary educational institution in the State of Georgia for facilitating or compensating student-athletes for their NIL.
This executive order will remain in effect until a formal settlement or federal legislation is established regarding athlete compensation. Notably, the House v. NCAA class action lawsuit is nearing settlement and could dramatically reshape college athletics by allowing programs to share more than 20% of athletic department revenue.
As other states consider similar measures, Georgia’s proactive approach may prompt a ripple effect across the SEC and beyond, potentially altering recruiting dynamics as schools scramble to adapt to this new reality. Georgia and Georgia Tech athletic directors applaud Brian Kemp’s decision. With both Georgia and Georgia Tech currently not planning to implement immediate payments, this order positions them strategically for future NIL opportunities while ensuring they remain competitive in attracting top talent as national conversations around athlete compensation continue to unfold.
Source: Read the executive order here