STEVENS POINT, Wi. — Wisconsin is now one of dozens of states in the U.S. where high school student-athletes can enter into Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) opportunities.

Member schools of the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) voted 293-108 to approve the proposed NIL language. The language allows “NIL activities that are not associated or identified with their respective school team, school, conference or the WIAA and are in accordance with other prohibited NIL activities, including language attempting to deter undue influence to transfer schools.”

This means that student-athletes can profit off NIL, as long as they are not compensated for their athletic performances, nor compensated for being recruited to another school. They also must follow guidelines that prohibit them from using school uniforms, logos or branding in these deals. Nor can they utilize alcohol, drugs, gambling or adult content as part of NIL deals.

“With today’s vote, member schools have opted to join a growing list of states that allow student-athletes to capitalize on their athletic talents in a way that is similar to students with other valued talents and skills,” WIAA Executive Director Stephanie Hauser said. “At its core, the WIAA is charged with promoting fairness and sportsmanship while protecting the integrity of the game — something I believe this NIL language preserves.”

A similar proposal was voted on last year but did not pass.