Governor implements new restrictions on recruting

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill into law last week that will alter the recruiting process for California coaches and universities.

The law, known as the Student-Athletes’ Right to Know Act, requires coaches to reveal to prospect student-athletes institutional and NCAA policies on medical expenses, scholarship renewals and transfers.

Supporters hope this law will hold universities accountable for the promises their coaches make to prospects. In addition, the act will allow athletes and their families to be more informed when deciding to accept or reject an athletic scholarship.

Those who oppose the bill feel it will place unnecessary burdens on coaches and universities.

The law will also require universities to admit to prospects the small probability of having a professional career in sports.

“This law is a milestone in college athletes’ struggle to secure basic protections,” Ramogi Huma, president of the National College Players Association, said in an e-mail to the The Chronicle of Higher Education. “This is only the beginning. We will take this fight to other states next year.”