Wisconsin Senate Bill SB193

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/23
• Refer: 4/3/23
• 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

This bill will significantly alter the existing structure of professional licensing in the state. By extending the renewal periods, it hopes to alleviate some of the administrative burden on both professionals and the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). However, the necessity to double the continuing education requirements introduces a significant change that may require professionals to reassess their approach to maintaining their licenses. Overall, the intention is to create a more efficient licensing process while still ensuring professional competency.

Summary

Senate Bill 193 proposes to revise the renewal periods for various health and business credentials in Wisconsin from the current two-year period to a four-year period. This modification aims to streamline the renewal process and potentially reduce the frequency of renewal applications for individuals holding these professional licenses. In conjunction with the extended renewal periods, the bill mandates that where continuing education requirements are specified by statute, these requirements will be doubled to ensure that license holders maintain current knowledge and skills within their respective fields throughout the extended renewal timeframe.

Contention

The discussion surrounding SB193 likely includes points of contention regarding the ethics of prolonging license renewal periods while simultaneously increasing educational requirements. Critics may argue that doubling the education requirements could pose a financial burden on professionals who must now comply with more demanding standards for less frequent renewals. Furthermore, some might view the changes as an unnecessary increase in regulation that could complicate the interests of both license holders and the general public, especially in fields that require continual professional proficiency.