LANSING, MI (AP)-- New legislation would say college athletes in Michigan aren't public employees under state law.
The bill introduced in Lansing Tuesday would ensure the athletes aren't entitled to collective bargaining rights.
The employee status of full-scholarship football players became an issue in March, after a federal labor official ruled Northwestern University football players are employees and have a right to unionize. If the ruling holds, it could have widespread repercussions in the multibillion-dollar college sports industry.
The Northwestern players voted on unionization in April, but the ballots are sealed pending a final decision from the National Labor Relations Board.
Republican Rep. Al Pscholka of Stevensville says he introduced the bill because "student-athletes are still students" and education should be the emphasis. A House panel will take testimony on the bill Wednesday.