Missouri GOPer Abruptly Withdraws Bill Revoking Striking Athletes’ Scholarships

Feb. 10, 2014 - Columbia, Missouri, U.S - Missouri defensive lineman Michael Sam (52) lets out a scream after sacking McNeese State quarterback Jacob Bower for a safety during the first half of the NCAA football game... Feb. 10, 2014 - Columbia, Missouri, U.S - Missouri defensive lineman Michael Sam (52) lets out a scream after sacking McNeese State quarterback Jacob Bower for a safety during the first half of the NCAA football game between the Mizzou Tigers and McNeese State Cowboys at the Edward Jones Dome in Columbia, Mo., Saturday, September 11, 2010. Missouri defeated McNeese 50-6 (Cal Sport Media via AP Images) MORE LESS
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A Missouri Republican lawmaker withdrew a bill early Wednesday that proposed revoking student athlete scholarships if they participated in strikes, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

The proposed legislation, which came after University of Missouri football players threatened not to play during a recent rash of student protests, had a short life as it had been filed Friday. The legislation would have also required universities to fine coaches who encouraged athletes’ participation in strikes.

The Post-Dispatch reported that the bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Rick Brattin (R), did not comment on the withdrawal. But Brattin did tell a radio station in Kansas City that “we have a complete train wreck of a university due to their actions.”

The bill’s co-sponsor, state Rep. Kurt Bahr (R), told the newspaper he was surprised by his colleague’s decision to withdraw the bill.

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