Reps. Meredith Craig, Jim Thomas' House Bill 105 Signed into Law

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – State Representatives Meredith Craig (R–Smithville) and Jim Thomas (R- Plain Township) announced Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 105 into law, bringing long-overdue transparency to third-party litigation funding and prevents foreign entities from influencing Ohio’s courts. 

Third-party litigation funding allows outside investors with no direct stake in a legal dispute to finance lawsuits in exchange for a portion of any future settlement or judgment. While often used to help plaintiffs access capital, these arrangements operate with limited transparency, can prolong litigation, and often leave plaintiffs with only a fraction of their settlement while funders collect a substantial share of the proceeds. In many cases, foreign-backed entities have invested in U.S. litigation, raising concerns about outside influence in American courts.

House Bill 105 creates a clear transparency framework for consumers, requires third-party funders to register with the Ohio Attorney General, prohibits third-party funders from directing legal strategy, and requires them to disclose the terms of their funding agreements after the case has ended. Most importantly, House Bill 105 includes a first-in-the-nation ban on all foreign governments, foreign corporations, and foreign investors participating in third-party litigation funding. 

“For too long, foreign actors have profited off Ohio citizens and businesses,” said Rep. Craig. “I thank Governor DeWine for signing this important legislation into law and standing with us to put an end to this practice. Ohio’s courts should serve the interests of justice—not provide investment opportunities for foreign entities seeking to profit off our legal system.”

“An important component of a strong business environment is a stable and predictable civil justice system,” said Rep. Thomas. “I thank Governor DeWine for signing this important legislation into law and recognizing the need to strengthen Ohio’s legal system. This commonsense measure will protect Ohioans, consumers, and businesses from outside interests seeking to profit from our courts, while creating greater transparency and accountability. By strengthening the integrity of our civil justice system, we are helping make Ohio an even better place to live, work, and do business.”

House Bill 105 becomes effective October 6, 2026.