ACC’s Coordinated Lobbying Campaign Shapes Controversial College Sports Bill
The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) engaged in an intensive, multi-week lobbying campaign to influence the final language of the Protect College Sports Act (PCSA) before its Senate advancement. Records show the conference coordinated with lawmakers, hired outside lobbyists, and pressured member schools to support specific provisions, particularly those regarding conference movement and gambling. While the bill faces opposition from athlete advocates over health and safety gaps, the ACC’s efforts highlight the conferences’ push for federal antitrust exemptions to stabilize college athletics.