Montgomery, Ala. — Alabama lawmakers are taking a stand against a new Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) rule that renders student-athletes ineligible to play for one year if they transfer schools using financial aid like the CHOOSE Act.
State leaders have warned that consequences will follow if the rule isn’t revised.
Lawmakers Push Back Against AHSAA Ruling
The CHOOSE Act, which includes a $7,000 tax credit for students to change schools, aims to give students access to better educational opportunities. However, state leaders argue that this financial aid should not impact a student-athlete’s eligibility to compete.
State Sen. Chris Elliot, R-Josephine, questioned the AHSAA’s authority over the law, saying:
“It is tough for me to see where the Alabama High School Athletic Association thinks their rules trump the law of the state of Alabama, which says nothing shall impact a player’s eligibility.”
Elliot emphasized that the CHOOSE Act was designed to benefit students, and that there was no legal basis for the AHSAA’s restriction on athletes’ eligibility.
The Impact on Student-Athletes
State Rep. Jeremy Gray, D-Opelika, expressed his concerns about the ruling, calling it a “slap in the face” to the legislature’s intent. Although he disagrees with the CHOOSE Act, Gray emphasized that the AHSAA’s rule does not serve the best interests of student-athletes:
“It was meant for people to be able to choose … whether it was for education reasons, athletic reasons,” Gray said. “Give them an opportunity. So for them to come down with this ruling, I feel like it’s kind of a slap in the face to the legislature.”
Gray argued that the law was designed to empower students, not restrict their opportunities.
Calls for Revisions or Repeal
State Rep. Kelvin Datcher, D-Birmingham, agreed with Gray’s concerns, but also pointed out that the AHSAA’s rule could have lasting consequences for student-athletes. Datcher suggested the CHOOSE Act should be reconsidered and potentially revised in 2026.
“I do know that their concern is fairness and fair play, and I get that because that should absolutely be priority,” Datcher said. “But it should not come at the expense of the experiences and opportunities that our young men and women have.”
Datcher emphasized the need for balance between fair play and ensuring that students have the freedom to choose their educational path without sacrificing athletic opportunities.
Lawmakers Consider Repealing the AHSAA’s Authority
State Sen. Lance Bell, R-Pell City, is also calling for changes, with some colleagues even discussing the possibility of dismantling the AHSAA altogether. He expressed frustration over the AHSAA’s stance, referring to it as a “kick in the teeth.”
“That’s why we specifically put in the CHOOSE Act that these kids are entitled to do anything and everything at the school they left,” Bell said.
AHSAA Responds to Criticism
CBS 42 reached out to the AHSAA for an interview regarding the new rule, but AHSAA Director of Communications Ron Ingram stated:
“NO one is in the office today.”
The standoff between the state legislature and the AHSAA continues as lawmakers prepare to take further action.
