FRANKFORT, Ky. — The University of Kentucky says it needs lawyers who can practice in Texas in its fight with former basketball coach Billy Gillispie, and a legislative panel has agreed to spend up to $100,000 to help with the bill.

The Government Contract Review Committee approved the expense Tuesday without debate. The contract still needs the approval of the Finance and Administration Department.

The university’s contract with its law firm says the school needs lawyers licensed to practice law in Texas.

Gillispie sued the university in federal court in Texas, claiming the school’s athletics department owes him $6 million for firing him two years into a seven-year agreement. The university says he never signed a formal contract and the school doesn’t owe the money.