Texas gives prez authority to pick new conference

Before the vote, Powers told the regents that the school should be able to explore options, which he says could include staying in the Big 12.

Any move to a new conference would have to be submitted to the regents for final approval.

Regents at Oklahoma made a similar move earlier Monday, giving President David Boren the same decision-making authority.

Texas A&M has already announced that it plans to leave the Big 12 and pursue membership in the SEC.