Oklahoma Gov. Stitt Signs NIL Payment Order

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has signed Executive Order 2025-01, allowing state universities to directly pay student-athletes for their name, image, and likeness (NIL) use amid ongoing federal litigation regarding NIL regulations. This initiative aims to level the competitive playing field for Oklahoma's institutions, which have faced disadvantages due to inconsistent national NIL rules. The order explicitly prohibits the use of taxpayer dollars for these payments and allows the creation of foundations to facilitate NIL contributions without fear of investigation from athletic organizations like the NCAA. The order is set to automatically expire once federal laws are established or ongoing litigation concludes. University leaders, including OU President Joseph Harroz Jr., have expressed strong support for this move as a crucial step in securing opportunities for student-athletes. Stitt emphasized that the action is vital for maintaining Oklahoma's competitive edge in collegiate athletics.