DeSantis Signs ‘Teddy Bridgewater Act’ Allowing Coaches to Aid Athletes
Governor signs legislation allowing high school coaches to spend personal funds helping student athletes after NFL quarterback’s suspension sparked reform.
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA — Gov. Ron DeSantis signed two high school sports bills into law Friday, including legislation that allows coaches to provide meals, transportation, and other support to student athletes using their personal funds.
The signing ceremony took place at Jean Ribault High School in Jacksonville, where DeSantis announced the passage of SB 178, dubbed the “Teddy Bridgewater Act” after the Miami-born NFL quarterback who faced suspension for helping his players.
New Law Permits Coach Support
The legislation permits head coaches to spend up to $15,000 annually from their personal funds to support student welfare, provided they obtain parental consent. Coaches may provide food, transportation, and recovery services to athletes under the new law.
“Coaches can play a role apart from just the Xs and Os. Sometimes they serve as a father figure to some of the youth athletes, especially for some of the athletes that may not have a father in the home, or have that type of influence,” DeSantis said during the bill signing.
The law requires coaches to report any aid provided to the Florida High School Athletic Association. The FHSAA maintains authority to determine whether support was given in good faith or used improperly for recruiting purposes.
Bridgewater’s Suspension Sparked Legislation
The bill honors Teddy Bridgewater, who coached at his alma mater Miami Northwestern High School in 2024 until the FHSAA suspended him for providing players with rides, meals, and other services. Bridgewater’s situation highlighted restrictions that prevented coaches from personally assisting struggling athletes.
The legislation received unanimous approval in both legislative chambers. Sen. Shevrin Jones, D-Miami Gardens, led the effort in the Senate, while Republican Reps. Chip Lamarca of Lighthouse Point and Chase Tramont of Port Orange sponsored the House version.
Booster Club Payment Bill Also Signed
DeSantis also signed SB 538, which allows booster clubs to supplement district stipends by paying coaches and activity sponsors directly. The measure provides additional compensation opportunities for high school coaching staff beyond traditional district payments.
Both laws take effect July 1, marking changes to Florida’s high school athletic policies. The Bridgewater Act specifically requires that coaches use personal funds “in good faith” to provide authorized support services to student athletes.
The Florida High School Athletic Association must now adjust its regulations to accommodate the new coaching support provisions while maintaining oversight to prevent recruiting violations.
