More than two dozen Arkansas lawmakers are raising concerns about a resolution approved by the University of Arkansas System Board of Trustees that could provide nearly $11 million to the Razorbacks Athletic Department.
The board approved the measure during its Jan. 28 meeting. The resolution would generate $6 million through “offsets and forbearance,” along with additional funds saved by the athletic department from canceling internal transfers to institutional operations.
The plan also requires the athletic department to generate an additional $5 million annually for the football program through an “All-In Fund,” which would rely on operational efficiencies, cost reductions, new revenue and philanthropic fundraising.
State Rep. Brit McKenzie and 24 other members of the Arkansas House of Representatives sent a letter to UA System President Jay Silveria and University of Arkansas Chancellor Charles Robinson expressing concerns about the decision.
In the letter, lawmakers said they respect the tradition and community support surrounding Razorbacks athletics but questioned the financial impact the move could have on students and taxpayers.
“However, we cannot support this substantial change in institutional funding priorities, particularly where such substantial changes appear to have been made on short notice, without adequate explanation, and will necessarily be borne by the students at the University, their families, and ultimately the Arkansas taxpayer,” the lawmakers wrote.
The letter also highlighted economic concerns in Arkansas, noting the state’s poverty rate of 15.5 percent and that nearly half a million Arkansans live below the federal poverty line. Lawmakers pointed to the estimated $32,000 cost for in-state undergraduate tuition, fees and expenses during the 2025-26 academic year as another reason for concern.
The lawmakers said the board’s decision raises questions about fiscal priorities and responsibility.
“Expanding subsidies or creating new financial commitments without thorough, independent analysis will ultimately shift costs onto those least able to afford them,” the letter states.
The group is asking the board to repeal the Jan. 28 resolution and instead authorize a comprehensive independent cost study of the university’s athletics department. Lawmakers also requested a full review of institutional resources that could improve academic and athletic outcomes without placing additional financial burdens on students or taxpayers.
They asked that the results of any study and the board’s conclusions be made publicly available and reported to the Arkansas General Assembly, including the Joint Education Committee and the Subcommittee on Higher Education.
Lawmakers said the move would help maintain public trust and ensure accountability, adding that they are prepared to explore legislative options during the upcoming fiscal session if necessary.
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