This week, the state of Oklahoma joined others, including Ohio, Virginia and Georgia, in signing an executive order to allow colleges and universities to directly pay student-athletes for NIL. Governor Kevin Stitt’s decision was supported by Senate Bill 1786, which was passed by lawmakers in 2024.
Stitt told The Oklahoman, “Oklahoma is home to some of the nation’s most outstanding student-athletes. This executive order ensures that these student-athletes have access to the same opportunities as their peers in other states. It’s about leveling the playing field and maintaining the competitive edge that defines Oklahoma athletics. This action is a critical step to protect Oklahoma’s student-athletes and ensures they have the opportunity to succeed on and off the field.”
Related: Ohio Governor Dewine Signs Order Allowing Schools to Pay Student-Athletes for NIL
Among the many advantages Stitt noted in passing the executive order, he emphasized that it prevents taxpayer money from being used on NIL deals. According to the Oklahoman, “Stitt’s order will automatically expire upon the settlement of the federal NIL litigation or with the enactment of a federal law governing student-athlete payments.”
Stitt also noted that the inconsistencies in how universities approach NIL across the nation prompted him to take action in his own state. Oklahoma boasts four Division I programs: the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Oral Roberts University and the University of Tulsa. Following news of the executive order, the response from these schools has been overwhelmingly positive.
The University of Oklahoma president, Joseph Harroz, said, “By empowering student-athletes to fully leverage the value of their name, image, and likeness, we are providing them with the tools and ability to excel during their time at the University of Oklahoma and in their future endeavors while also ensuring Oklahoma’s student-athletes can compete on a level playing field with their peers in other states.”
And Oklahoma State University president Kayse Shrum echoed a similar sentiment, “Today’s executive order brings exciting possibilities for our institutions, our student-athletes and our fans.”
