“Teddy Bridgewater Act” Passes Florida Senate, Allowing Coaches to Support Athletes

Tallahassee, FL – In a unanimous decision on Thursday, February 19, 2026, the Florida Senate passed CS/CS/SB 178, informally known as the “Teddy Bridgewater Act.” The legislation allows public school head coaches in Florida to use up to $15,000 of their own personal funds annually to support student-athlete welfare, covering expenses such as food, transportation, and recovery services . The bill now heads to the Florida House of Representatives for consideration before potentially being signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis .

The Origin of the Bill: Teddy Bridgewater’s Suspension

The legislation stems from the case of former NFL quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, who was suspended by the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) in September 2025 for providing impermissible benefits to athletes even as coaching at Miami Northwestern High School . Bridgewater, who led Northwestern to a state championship in 2024, spent approximately $27,000 of his own money on expenses for his players, including Uber rides ($700 per week), transportation, team clothing, meals, and recovery services . He publicly disclosed these expenditures and requested donations for the program .

Key Provisions of the “Teddy Bridgewater Act”

• Personal Funds Allowed: Head coaches can use up to $15,000 of their own money per team, per year.
• Permitted Expenses: Funds can be used for food, transportation, and recovery services for student-athletes.
• Reporting Requirement: Coaches must report all expenditures made under the provisions of the bill .
• Great Faith Requirement: Contributions must be made in good faith.

Bridgewater’s Reaction and Future

Following the Senate vote, Bridgewater reacted with enthusiasm on Instagram, posting “Not the Teddy B act” alongside two fire emojis .

Bridgewater coached Miami Northwestern High School in 2024 and signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2025 . His coaching suspension was set to expire this summer, but his future plans regarding a return to the sidelines at Northwestern remain unclear .

Legislative Support

Senator Shervin Jones introduced Senate Bill 178, with a companion measure filed in the House by Chip LaMarca . LaMarca stated the bill ensures that student-athletes do not go without basic needs due to limited resources and provides coaches with the flexibility to support student well-being while maintaining accountability .