Illinois high school athletes could soon find it easier to play for both their school teams and club squads during the same season, thanks to a new law and a shift in the state’s high school sports rules.

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) and state lawmakers say they’re responding to years of complaints from students and parents frustrated by IHSA’s long-standing ban on outside competition during the school season. Under current rules, a basketball player, for example, can’t play in a club tournament or a showcase event if it falls during their high school season, unless it’s for a national team. That’s led to high-profile suspensions and missed opportunities for college recruitment.

The new measure, known as the Right to Play Act (House Bill 3037), was sponsored by State Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) and State Rep. Janet Yang Rohr (D-Naperville). The law will allow student-athletes to apply for up to two waivers per school year, letting them participate in non-school athletic events in the same sport during their school season, as long as their principal or athletic director signs off.

The new policy is expected to have significant benefits for student-athletes, especially those seeking college scholarships or exposure to higher levels of competition.

“Through this measure, we are helping to connect youth in our communities to further opportunities, such as college scholarships, and allowing them more time to play a sport they enjoy before they graduate,” said Sen. Villivalam. “I am grateful for the continued collaboration between Representative Yang Rohr, IHSA and advocates who are working to address the concerns of many athletes.”

The bill has passed the Illinois House and is currently awaiting further action in the Senate.