West Virginia High School NIL Legislation
West Virginia allows high school student-athletes to earn NIL compensation. Effective since August 8, 2025.
Current Status
Allowed
Governing Body
West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission (WVSSAC)
Effective Date
August 8, 2025
Timeline
West Virginia NIL Journey
August 8, 2025
The Big Flip
WVSSAC activated first-ever NIL policy - moved from "Prohibited" to "Permitted."
January 14, 2026
SB 21 Non-School Rights
Bill ensures students/coaches cannot be penalized for showcase/club participation.
January 14, 2026
SB 122 Transfer Repeal
Would repeal "one-time free transfer" - fears NIL creates high school super-teams.
January 2026
HB 2576 Direct Payment Debate
WVU/Marshall direct payment from revenue - may set precedent for elite seniors.
Allowed
Key Provisions
What West Virginia allows
"Broad Access" - NIL rights extend to Grades 6-12 (middle school included)
WVSSAC Rule 127-2-11 governs amateur status - first policy activated Aug 2025
SB 21 protects participation in "non-school" athletic activities (showcase/club)
HB 2576 debates direct payment from athletic revenue at WVU/Marshall level
Northern Panhandle athletes now have parity with PA/OH neighbors
Prohibited
Restrictions
What West Virginia prohibits
No school identification (Rule 11.6) - school names, logos, mascots prohibited
"Team Activity" ban - cannot promote NIL partner during practices, games, or travel
No institutional involvement - boosters/collectives cannot entice transfers
Coaches/ADs cannot facilitate deals
Vice bans: Adult entertainment, alcohol, tobacco/vaping, cannabis, controlled substances, gambling/lottery, weapons/firearms
Compliance
How Framework Helps West Virginia
Our platform is built specifically for West Virginia's NIL requirements
WVSSAC Rule 127-2-11 Compliance
Full Grades 6-12 coverage and team activity separation
Middle School Tools
Age-appropriate NIL education for 6th-8th grade athletes
Border Parity Tools
Northern Panhandle coordination with PA/OH markets
SB 122 Transfer Monitoring
Track transfer rule changes and eligibility impacts
Ready to Navigate West Virginia NIL?
Framework provides the education, compliance, and management tools that West Virginia schools, families, and athletes need to succeed with NIL.