Ohio Senate Passes Rep. Craig's House Bill 105

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - State Representative Meredith Craig (R-Smithville) announced the Ohio Senate passed House Bill 105, bringing long-overdue transparency to third-party litigation funding and ensuring that no foreign entity can invest in or influence our 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 some 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 and requires third-party funders to register with the Ohio Attorney General, which ensures outside financial interests cannot secretly influence Ohio's legal system.

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 by investing in our courts," said Representative Meredith Craig. "That stops today."

House Bill 105 now heads to the Governor's desk for consideration.