Ohio Approves NIL Rights for High School Athletes
Ohio has officially joined 44 other states in permitting high school student-athletes to profit from their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). The change comes after OHSAA member schools approved an emergency bylaw referendum, with 447 schools voting in favor, 121 against, and 247 abstaining.
The decision follows a temporary restraining order issued on Oct. 15 by a Franklin County judge after a student-athlete filed suit challenging the previous restriction. With the vote now complete, the new NIL bylaw takes effect immediately.
Under this bylaw, OHSAA athletes can legally enter agreements for appearances, licensing, social media content, endorsements, and other promotional activities.
OHSAA Executive Director Doug Ute said member schools “took ownership” of the proposal, noting that courts nationwide have consistently held that high school and college associations cannot stop student-athletes from earning money from their NIL.
OHSAA stated that the bylaw establishes a structured framework for NIL and personal branding, crafted over more than a year with feedback from administrators, the board of directors, and member schools. The organization will continue enforcing recruiting and transfer rules while tracking NIL deals for compliance.
The bylaw outlines strict guardrails: student-athletes cannot use school logos or trademarks, receive NIL deals from school-affiliated individuals or collectives, promote brands during school or team activities, or accept compensation tied to athletic performance.
Deals connected to gambling, alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, adult entertainment, or weapons are prohibited. All agreements must be disclosed within 14 days, and violations may result in penalties.
Ohio’s move marks a significant shift in the landscape of high school athletics, opening new opportunities for young athletes while emphasizing education, protection, transparency, and accountability.
Every child has the right to develop their talents and pursue opportunities in a safe and supportive environment, and that includes young athletes, whose economic rights, personal dignity, and best interests must be fully respected as they navigate emerging NIL opportunities.
