June 28, 2021 – (COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today signed Executive Order 2021-10D to allow any student athlete enrolled in Ohio colleges and universities to earn compensation from their name, image, and likeness.
“Ohio’s colleges and athletes need this directive. The federal government has yet to provide updated instructions on how to modernize collegiate programs and allow athletes to make money while making sure they remain amateurs,” said Governor DeWine. “Naturally, athletes will want to go to college in states where they can earn money and remain eligible to play. Without setting these rules Ohio college athletic programs would be at a disadvantage.”
“Without this Executive Order, Ohio’s colleges and universities would be at a competitive disadvantage when it comes to attracting the athletes they need to win championships,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “We should want college athletes in Ohio to have the same opportunities to benefit from their talents as student athletes in other states.”
Based on S.B. 187, sponsored by State Senator Niraj Antani (Miamisburg), this order allows student athletes to obtain professional representations and enter contracts for endorsements. They will be required to inform their college or university of any contracts they enter. The order also prohibits those colleges or universities from preventing a student from participating in athletics or otherwise punishing them as a result of earning such compensation.
Powell Issues Statement on Governor’s NIL Executive Order
June 28, 2021
COLUMBUS – State Rep. Jena Powell (R-Arcanum) today issued the following statement after reports of Governor DeWine issuing an executive order allowing Ohio college athletes to profit off their name, image and likeness (NIL):
“Today, we have learned that Governor DeWine prioritizes delivering profits to college athletes over protecting little girls in Ohio. Instead of advocating for female athletics under the Save Women’s Sports Act, the governor has decided to bypass the General Assembly.
His executive order, which will disproportionately benefit male athletes, does nothing to promote fairness in women’s sports. College athletes have large institutions and big money on their side. Little girls don’t – and that’s why I’m fighting so passionately for them.
I fully support college athletes receiving compensation for the use of their name and likeness. But legislation benefiting them must also benefit the young female athletes who compete in our state.”