A new bill has been passed by the Georgia Senate that would punish people for attempting to pay and profit off student-athletes.
The St. Augustine Record reports that the state Senate has passed a bill called House Bill 3 that would impose fines and possible jail time for perpetrators. The bill was inspired by former University of Georgia running back Todd Gurley who was suspended four games last season for selling autographs to a dealer. While Gurley was punished, the man who sold the autographed merchandise and reported the violation faced no consequences from the NCAA.
The Atlanta Journal Constitution notes the idea came from state Senator and Georgia alumnus Barry Fleming back in January. There was initial talks of a $25,000 fine that was later reduced to up to $5,000 and a year of prison. The bill must now wait to be approved by the Governor before it can be turned into a law.
House Bill 3 got its name from Gurley's jersey number in college. Shortly after returning from suspension, Gurley suffered an ACL injury that would end his career at Georgia. In spite of his injury and past mistakes, Gurley will be heading to the NFL Draft in May where he's projected to be selected in the first round.