Nashville, Tenn. ? Athletes who become pregnant or have other medical conditions moved closer to NCAA protection of their scholarships under legislation overwhelmingly approved Sunday by the Division I management council.

The council approved not reducing or canceling a scholarship due to injury, illness or medical condition – including pregnancy – by a vote of 46-5. The Division I board of directors will consider the change today on the final day of the NCAA convention.

If the board adopts the change, then the protection would begin immediately.