Senate Departs Washington Ahead of November Elections
On Sept. 30, the Senate adjourned, concluding its last legislative session ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Before leaving DC, the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee voted 12-11 to advance Dr. Nicole Saphier’s nomination to become the next surgeon general. The full Senate will vote to confirm Dr. Saphier after the midterm elections.
Senate Passes the Protect College Sports Act
On Sept. 28, the Senate passed the Protect College Sports Act by a vote of 77-22. The legislation would establish a federal framework for student-athlete name, image, and likeness (NIL) compensation. The evolving NIL compensation environment will likely have downstream implications for team physicians who care for these athletes.