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Bill

SB 785

Relating to: including information about investigations of license holders in an online licensing portal maintained by the Department of Public Instruction. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by André Jacque and 4 co-sponsors

Wisconsin must publish investigation records of licensed school professionals on the public licensing portal, increasing transparency about educator disciplinary matters.

Presented to the Governor on 4-2-2026
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Bill Summary · SB 785

Legislative bill overview

SB 785 requires the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction to include information about investigations of licensed professionals (teachers, administrators, etc.) in its online licensing portal. This makes disciplinary investigation records publicly accessible through the existing portal rather than requiring separate records requests or searches.

Why is this important

Public access to investigation information affects transparency in education and child safety. Parents and school administrators can view whether educators have pending or completed disciplinary investigations, influencing hiring decisions and community awareness. This directly impacts how the public monitors professional conduct in schools.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Whether investigation records—especially unresolved cases—should be public before final determinations, potentially damaging reputations of exonerated individuals
  • Liability and accuracy: Questions about who maintains the data, how quickly it's updated, and whether the state is liable for incorrect or outdated information
  • Scope and definition: Unclear what constitutes an "investigation" (complaints, formal inquiries, serious allegations) and whether all types should be equally visible

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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