AR HB1649

Expands the definition of "student-athlete" to include individuals who have been accepted for admission or signed a National Letter of Intent to enroll at an Arkansas higher education institution, in addition to currently enrolled students eligible for varsity athletics.

Establishes that student-athletes shall have the right to enter into contracts and receive compensation for commercial use of their publicity rights, and allows institutions, foundations, and charitable organizations to facilitate these opportunities.

Prohibits third-party contracts from requiring student-athletes to promote commercial entities during athletic practices or competitions, from conflicting with institutional policies, or from being based on athletic performance.

Allows student-athletes to rescind publicity rights contracts without liability for breach once they are no longer enrolled, eligible to participate, or actively participating in varsity intercollegiate athletics.

Declares an emergency effective upon gubernatorial approval, finding that immediate implementation is necessary for intercollegiate athletic recruitment purposes and to ensure recruits understand name, image, and likeness rules when selecting athletic programs.