Journalist: Gabby Burke (OSU)
On Thursday evening in the House of Representatives, SE-505, also known as the “Collegiate
Athlete Mental Health Support Act of 2026,” was introduced by Rep. Gammon (ESU). This bill
was originally written because the author claimed, “Athletes pour all of themselves into their
schools, and it is only fair if we begin to pour back into them.” This bill would allocate more
funding into collegiate athletics through federal funds and grants, as well as by reallocating
current educational and general funds.
The goal of this bill is to provide student-athletes with additional mental health treatment and
resources. This would be done through the reallocation of funds by the Regents of Higher
Education. Additionally, personnel and coaching staff would undergo training to better recognize
warning signs of mental illness.
Proponents of this bill felt that athletes’ mental health treatment was in need of more funding.
While explaining the bill, Rep. Gammon stated that she used to be a collegiate athlete and has
seen the need for this program firsthand. Additionally, many proponents felt that the money
allocated to these mental health resources would not be costly enough to create any extreme
financial burdens.
Opponents of this bill felt that there are already many resources available for students on college
campuses who struggle with mental health. Rep. Lillie Reed (OSU) said, “Here at Oklahoma
State, we have resources like Cowboy Care Ambassadors and Health Services. I do not know if
we need more exclusive mental health services.” A common theme heard during caucusing was
that more clarification was needed on where the funding would come from and how these
programs would be managed. Ultimately, the bill failed in the House after spirited debate and
discussion.