Legislation Championed by Rep. Mathews is Now Ohio Law

State Representative Ty Mathews (R-Findlay) today announced that Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed 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.

“I’m proud to have worked on House Bill 184 from day one—this law protects Ohio’s student-athletes by making sure their NIL deals are tied to their eligibility, so they can focus on their futures without unnecessary distractions. It’s a win for fairness and opportunity in college sports,” said Mathews.¿

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 safeguards against undue influence and exploitation, and further protects athletes by requiring that mediation is to be disputed in the State of Ohio.

House Bill 184 will go into effect March 18, 2026.