The Florida Senate has passed a bill known as the "Teddy Bridgewater Act," which would allow public school head coaches from kindergarten through 12th grade to spend their own money to support student-athlete welfare. The legislation was inspired by the case of former Miami Northwestern head coach Teddy Bridgewater, who was suspended for using personal funds for player meals, transportation, and recovery services.
Proposed by Senator Shervin Jones, Senate Bill 178 permits middle and high school head coaches to use up to $15,000 of their own money for these purposes. The bill aims to formalize "good faith" support coaches often provide. It now moves to the Florida House of Representatives for consideration before potentially being signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis.
Bridgewater, an alumnus who led Miami Northwestern to a state title in 2024, was suspended for the 2025 season for providing what were deemed impermissible benefits. He had reportedly spent significant sums weekly on team needs not covered by the school.