DES MOINES - On March 9th, Treasurer Smith released the following statement in response to the University of Iowa athletics settlement:

Prior to Monday’s State Appeals Board meeting, I met with the Attorney General’s Office to learn more about the terms of the settlement reached in the case involving the University of Iowa Football Program. During that meeting, I was informed that the University of Iowa and Board of Regents refused to pay the full amount of the settlement, but was told voting “no” on the proposed settlement would force the case to trial and open Iowa taxpayers up to millions more in potential future liabilities.  

On March 9th, I applaud President Wilson and the Board of Regents for reversing course and requiring the University of Iowa Athletic Department to cover costs related to the settlement, but I would also renew my call for President Wilson to re-examine the University’s relationship with Mr. Barta.  

Additionally, to protect Iowa taxpayers from ever being in this situation again, I am calling on the Iowa Legislature to continue moving House Study Bill 229 through the legislative process and to consider expanding the scope of the bill to include all claims involving the Regents Institutions. I look forward to working with the Legislature to continue this important public policy discussion.