Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB80

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/25
• Refer: 2/28/25
• Report Pass: 6/6/25
• Refer: 6/6/25
• Refer: 6/20/25
• Engrossed: 6/24/25
• Refer: 6/27/25
• Enrolled: 2/26/26
• Chaptered: 4/9/26
• Passed: 4/9/26

Caption

An Act to renumber 457.25 (1); to amend 46.90 (4) (ab) 4., 48.56 (2), 48.561 (2), 49.45 (30j) (a) 1., 51.03 (6) (a), 55.043 (1m) (a) 4., 146.81 (1) (hg), 146.89 (1) (r) 6., 146.89 (1) (r) 7., 146.997 (1) (d) 11., 252.14 (1) (ar) 7., 252.15 (1) (er), 253.10 (2) (f), 303.08 (1) (f), 440.03 (13) (b) (intro.), 440.15, 446.01 (1v) (m), 450.10 (3) (a) 10., 457.01 (1c), 457.01 (1r), 457.01 (10), 457.02 (5) and (5m), 457.03 (2), 457.033, 457.035 (2), 457.04 (1), 457.04 (2), 457.04 (4), 457.04 (7), 457.09 (4) (b) 1., 457.09 (4) (b) 2., 457.24 (1), 457.26 (2) (intro.) and 905.04 (1) (g); to repeal and recreate 632.89 (1) (dm); to create 14.898, 440.03 (11m) (c) 2v., 440.03 (13) (c) 1. id., 457.01 (5g), 457.01 (5j), 457.01 (12), 457.08 (4m), 457.25 (1g) and subchapter III of chapter 457 [precedes 457.70] of the statutes; Relating to: ratification of the Social Work Licensure Compact. (FE)

Impact

The passage of AB 80 would significantly affect state laws related to social work practice by allowing Wisconsin social workers to obtain multistate licenses recognized by other member states, thus facilitating the ability to practice without the need for re-licensing in each state. This change aims to address workforce shortages and improve service delivery by removing barriers for qualified social workers. The bill also stipulates that while states retain the ability to regulate their own licensing processes, the member states must adhere to the overarching agreements laid out by the compact.

Summary

Assembly Bill 80, relating to the ratification of the Social Work Licensure Compact, proposes to establish a multistate framework for social work licensing. By entering into this compact, Wisconsin aims to enhance the ability of social workers to practice across state lines, thereby improving access to services for residents while also providing flexibility for professionals. The compact sets clear standards for the issuance and recognition of multistate licenses, which are intended to streamline the licensing process for social workers moving between participating states.

Sentiment

The sentiment around AB 80 is generally supportive among social work professionals and organizational advocates who view it as a necessary step toward modernizing the workforce and improving access to mental health services. However, there are concerns expressed by some that the compact may undermine local regulatory authority and lead to a homogenization of standards that might not meet the specific needs of Wisconsin residents. This reflects an ongoing tension between state flexibility in regulation and the benefits of a uniform multistate approach.

Contention

Notably, points of contention include discussions around the adequacy of background checks and continuing education requirements for social workers under the proposed compact. Critics argue that while the compact aims to facilitate easier mobility for professionals, it is crucial that safeguards are in place to maintain high standards of practice and protect vulnerable populations. Debates have also arisen regarding the specific procedures for adverse actions, as the bill proposes mechanisms for member states to take action against licenses based on conduct reported from other states, which some view as overreaching.