Audit Ordered for State Agency that Issues Professional Licenses

Wednesday, February 8th, 2023 -- 9:00 AM

(Bob Hague, WRN) Lawmakers want to know why it takes too long to issue professional licenses in Wisconsin.

Republicans on the Legislative Audit Committee order an audit of the state Department of Safety and Professional Services. Co-chair, Representative Robert Wittke of Racine. “We have way too many people waiting way too long for licenses.”

“We can’t have people that are looking for licenses to become social workers to wait two and three months before they’re approved.” The agency is responsible for issuing licenses in hundreds of occupations.

Democrats on the committee voted against moving forward with the audit, claiming it will only make the work of DSPS staff more difficult. As of last August, license issuance wait times were averaging 45 days. The Evers’ administration has pointed to staffing shortages as a reason for delays.

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