TAX/INCOME TAX: Authorizes income tax deductions for income earned by an intercollegiate athlete and compensation paid by a taxpayer for use of an intercollegiate athlete's name, image, or likeness (OR DECREASE GF RV See Note)

HB 168 creates a state tax deduction for Louisiana taxpayers who pay college athletes for using their name, image, or likeness (NIL). Individuals can deduct up to $12,500 per athlete, while corporations can deduct the actual amount paid (capped at $12,500), for compensation earned while the athlete participates in a varsity sports program at a Louisiana college or university that receives state financial aid. The deduction applies only to NIL compensation paid during active athletic participation and excludes amounts prohibited under existing law (R.S. 17:3703). The bill takes effect January 1, 2026, and affects athletes at participating Louisiana institutions, as well as businesses or organizations paying them for NIL rights.