Gov. Stitt issues executive order for NIL student-athletes and post secondary institutions

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - On Thursday, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt announced the signing of Executive Order 2025-01, that ensures Oklahoma's postsecondary institutions and student-athletes remain competitive in intercollegiate athletics.

“Oklahoma is home to some of the nation’s most outstanding student-athletes,” said Governor Stitt. “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.”

According to the Governor's office, the executive order allows the creation of foundations to act as clearing houses that contribute to NIL funds without fear of retaliation or investigation from athletic organizations while ensuring Oklahoma taxpayer are not used.

Key provisions of the executive order include:

• Authorization for Oklahoma postsecondary institutions to facilitate NIL payments to student-athletes.
• Protection for institutions and individuals from investigations or adverse actions by athletic organizations for engaging in NIL-related activities.
• Restrictions preventing the use of state-allocated funds for NIL payments.
• Automatic expiration of the order upon final settlement approval in the federal NIL litigation or the enactment of a federal law governing student-athlete payments.

Read the full order here.