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SMR 6

IN RESPECTFUL MEMORY OF LEGENDARY COLLEGE FOOTBALL COACH LOUIS LEO "LOU" HOLTZ FOR HIS SERVICE TO THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT FAYETTEVILLE, THE STATE OF ARKANSAS, AND THE GAME OF FOOTBALL.

2026 Fiscal Session Introduced by Bart Hester

The resolution formally honors Lou Holtz for his significant contributions to Arkansas football and American sports, recognizing his coaching legacy and impact.

Died in Senate at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · SMR 6

Summary: SMR 6 (2026F) – In Respectful Memory of Lou Holtz

Purpose

  • A Senate Memorial Resolution honoring Louis Leo “Lou” Holtz, legendary college football coach and former University of Arkansas Razorbacks head coach, for his service to the University of Arkansas, the state, and the game of football.
  • Seeks to publicly recognize Holtz’s contributions and legacy following his death on March 4, 2026, at age 89.

Key Provisions

  • Declares the Senate’s respect and remembrance for Lou Holtz and his impact on Arkansas football and broader American sports.
  • Highlights Holtz’s tenure at the University of Arkansas (1977–1983) and his overall coaching achievements elsewhere.
  • Notable accomplishments and honors cited:
    • Record at Arkansas: 60 wins, 21 losses, 2 ties; six consecutive bowl games; four Top 10 final rankings.
    • 1977 season: 11–1 record; victory over No. 2 Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl (31–6).
    • Shared Southwest Conference championship in 1979.
    • Later roles leading Minnesota, Notre Dame (1988 national championship, 12–0 season), and South Carolina; noted for guiding six programs to bowl games and four Top 20 final rankings across his career.
    • Inductions: College Football Hall of Fame (2008), Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (1983); Presidential Medal of Freedom (2020).
    • Personal notes: lifelong faith, family, and influence as a coach known for discipline and motivational leadership.
  • Procedural elements:
    • Upon adoption, a copy of the resolution is to be presented to Holtz’s family by the Secretary of the Senate.

Who/What is Affected

  • Primary: Lou Holtz’s legacy and memory are the focus of recognition by the Arkansas Senate.
  • Secondary: The University of Arkansas, Razorbacks fans, former players, and Arkansans who regard Holtz as a significant figure in state sports history.
  • No fiscal impact, statutory changes, or regulatory effects are described; this is a ceremonial tribute.

Timelines and Procedures

  • Docket/Session: 95th General Assembly, Fiscal Session, 2026.
  • Filed: April 28, 2026.
  • Sponsor: Senator Bart Hester (principal); co-sponsor listed as well.
  • Status: Memorial resolution; ceremonial adoption by the Senate.

Notable Context

  • The bill serves as a formal, non-binding acknowledgment of Holtz’s contributions and impact on Arkansas and football culture.
  • Emphasizes Holtz’s famous coaching philosophy, motivational style, and enduring ties to the state, including pride in his Arkansas tenure and national coaching achievements.

If you’d like, I can compare SMR 6 to similar memorial resolutions or provide a one-page briefing for stakeholders (e.g., university officials, alumni groups).

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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