Report: Texas legislators working to keep Big 12 intact amid speculation of SEC expansion

It just means more roadblocks.

That is apparently the case in the Texas legislator following the news that Texas and Oklahoma are planning to leave the Big 12 for the SEC.

After that news broke on Wednesday, Big 12 university presidents are scrambling to get a handle on the potential shakeup that may be coming and lawmakers within the state are reportedly working behind the scenes to keep the Big 12 together.

That’s according to Billy Liucci of TexAgs:

As you'd expect, Tech, Baylor and TCU reps are all rallying to file legislation blocking any state school from switching conferences without approval. Happening as we speak…and I'm sure Oklahoma State is doing the same. Buckle up.

— Billy Liucci (@billyliucci) July 22, 2021

Liucci’s comments are backed up by these comments from Texas Tech graduate and state lawmaker Dustin Burrows:

The TX Legislature appropriates millions of dollars to our public institutions of higher ed every session. When tax dollars are involved, there should be zero allowance for secrecy, especially when it comes to far-reaching and impactful decisions by our universities. 1/2 #txlege

— Dustin Burrows (@Burrows4TX) July 22, 2021

Any discussions surrounding UT’s potential exit from the Big XII should be completely transparent and thoroughly vetted rather than held behind closed doors between big donors and administrators. 2/2 #txlege

— Dustin Burrows (@Burrows4TX) July 22, 2021

If Texas and Oklahoma make the decision to jump to the SEC, it appears they will have to overcome some obstacles in order to do so.