COLUMBUS, OH – State Representatives Brian Stewart (R-Ashville) and Ty Mathews (R-Findlay) today announced that the Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 184, legislation that marks a major advancement in protecting the rights and futures of Ohio’s student-athletes. The bill, which focuses on the regulation of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) contracts and the conduct of athlete agents, sets a new standard for fairness and accountability in collegiate athletics.
House Bill 184 ensures that NIL contracts cannot extend beyond a student-athlete’s period of eligibility for participation in intercollegiate athletics. This protection aims to help preserve athletes’ ability to control and benefit from their NIL once their college careers conclude. By prohibiting any person or agent from entering into NIL-related agreements that require future compensation or rights post-eligibility, the legislation helps prevent undue influence and exploitation.
“House Bill 184 is necessary and timely,” said Rep. Stewart. “It aligns with the rapidly evolving landscape of college athletics, where NIL opportunities have become a vital aspect of an athlete’s rights and future success. This bill not only protects Ohio’s intercollegiate athletes but also reflects the state’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and integrity in sports.”
“I’m proud to have worked on House Bill 184 to protect Ohio’s student-athletes and ensure their NIL rights are respected without jeopardizing their futures,” said Rep. Mathews. “This bill is about fairness, transparency, and doing what’s right for young athletes—and I’m excited to see where Ohio athletics goes from here!”
In addition to NIL protections, the bill introduces key accountability measures for athlete agents. It promotes financial transparency by preventing an agent from entering into a NIL contract with a student athlete if the contract extends beyond the student-athlete’s eligibility period, providing long-term protections in the event that their career continues beyond college.
The bill comes in response to rapid changes happening in college athletics and the impact of NIL contracts. Through this legislation, Ohio continues to be a leader in navigating the complexities of NIL agreements by ensuring that there is clarity in the law for all parties involved.
House Bill 184 will now go to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.
