Gov. Kevin Stitt Issues Executive Order On NIL Payments

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has issued an executive order permitting colleges in the state to directly compensate student-athletes for their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). The move positions Oklahoma as a leader in addressing the ongoing disparity in national NIL rules, which Stitt described as "inconsistent" and a source of uncertainty.

Leveling the Playing Field

“This is about leveling the playing field and maintaining the competitive edge that defines Oklahoma athletics,” Stitt said, emphasizing the importance of keeping the state’s universities competitive in the evolving landscape of collegiate sports.

Key Provisions of the Executive Order

The order allows postsecondary institutions or authorized third parties to pay athletes directly while prohibiting the use of state-allocated funds for NIL payments. Additionally, it bars the NCAA from investigating or penalizing Oklahoma colleges under the directive.

Leaders of Oklahoma's two largest universities praised the executive action.

OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. said in a statement:

"This action strengthens our ability to recruit, retain, and cultivate extraordinary talent, positioning our student-athletes for success in every aspect of their lives."

OSU President Kayse Shrum said that the order "brings exciting possibilities to our institutions, our student-athletes, and our fans."

Expiration of the Executive Order

The directive will automatically expire if a federal NIL law is enacted or a final settlement is reached in the ongoing federal litigation regarding NIL policies. Oklahoma joins Georgia and Virginia in taking similar steps, while the University of Tennessee has introduced a ticket surcharge to generate funds for athlete compensation.