The University of Colorado, Lawmakers Celebrate New State Law Supporting Student-Athlete Name, Image, and Likeness
July 23, 2025 | General
University of Colorado Athletics hosted a special luncheon to recognize the many people who were instrumental in passing HB25-1041, a new state law that allows universities to compensate student-athletes for their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights, while also providing student-athlete privacy protection of that compensation. Â
In attendance were the sponsors of the bill, Senate President James Coleman, Senator Judy Amabile, and Representative Lesley Smith. Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, a supporter of the bill, was also on hand, as were representatives from Governor Jared Polis's office. University of Colorado Board of Regents Ray Scott, Ilana Spiegel, and Mark VanDriel were also there to give their support and thanks.Â
University of Colorado President Todd Saliman, University of Colorado Boulder Chancellor Justin Schwartz, and Athletic Director Rick George all spoke to express their gratitude for the hard work in getting the bill passed. Â
"This new Colorado law is critical to our student-athletes and their ability to realize the value of their many contributions on and off the field," said CU President Saliman. "The effort to get here wasn't without its challenges and I am particularly proud that we were able to ensure our student-athletes' privacy as they navigate these formative years in education and sport."
"All of us at CU Boulder are excited for the passage of this bill, which supports and protects our student-athletes as they find success across athletics and academics," said Chancellor Schwartz. "Buffs are bold. We are strong. We are innovative. We live out those values across our campus, including in our athletic program. We aim to lead not just in competition but in building within our student-athletes the foundation for a successful life."Â Â Â
"With the House settlement, which requires universities to share revenue with student-athletes, going into effect on July 1, this bill makes it possible for CU to enter this new era of college athletics on a foundation that will give us the best chance for success," said Athletic Director George. "This is just the beginning and a lot is going to change as we continue to navigate these unprecedented times, but I am confident that thanks to this bill, CU Athletics is positioned for success in competition, in the classroom, and in the community now and for years to come."Â Â
Among those who were present to celebrate the bill were those who are impacted the most, CU student-athletes and coaches. Student-athletes Riley Burkey (track & field) and Ben Finneseth (football) joined head men's basketball coach Tad Boyle, football offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur, and football defensive coordinator Rob Livingston in personally thanking those who worked on the bill. Â
After lunch, the group gathered for a photo before taking a tour of the UC Health Champions Center.   Â