Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB204

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/20/23
• Refer: 4/20/23
• Report Pass: 6/1/23
• Refer: 6/1/23
• Engrossed: 6/7/23
• Refer: 6/8/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Renewal dates and continuing education requirements for certain credentials issued by the Department of Safety and Professional Services and credentialing boards and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

Impact

Should the bill be enacted, it will fundamentally alter the landscape of professional licensing in the state by extending the duration between necessary renewals. This is intended to reduce the administrative burden on both credential holders and the DSPS. However, the transition may come with challenges, such as ensuring that all licensed professionals stay informed and compliant with the new rules and educational requirements. Furthermore, the bill allows for the DSPS to double renewal fees temporarily if new fees have not been approved by the Joint Committee on Finance by the time of implementation, which may cause concern among professionals regarding potential cost increases.

Summary

Assembly Bill 204 aims to amend existing statutes related to the renewal of credentials issued by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) and credentialing boards. The bill proposes to change the renewal period for various licenses and certificates from a two-year cycle to a four-year cycle. This change is expected to streamline the renewal process and make credentials more sustainable for professionals across different fields. Additionally, the bill stipulates revised continuing education requirements that will be increased to correspond with the new four-year renewal period.

Contention

The bill has already seen some disagreement among stakeholders, particularly regarding the extent of the increase in continuing education requirements and its impact on working professionals. Proponents argue that the changes will benefit both the state and individuals by simplifying the renewal process and reducing costs associated with more frequent renewals. Critics, however, express concerns that the increasing requirements may disproportionately affect lower-income individuals who may struggle to meet the new educational criteria. The provision for emergency rules also adds an element of urgency that may limit stakeholder engagement in the rule-making process.