Senate Bill 140 proposes amendments to the statutes governing social work credentials in Wisconsin, specifically introducing a provisional pathway for individuals seeking social worker certificates and licenses. The bill allows individuals who have taken the relevant national examination but did not pass to obtain a provisional credential if they meet other requirements. This provisional credential permits them to practice at the corresponding level of social work and use the associated title, provided they complete a specified amount of supervised practice. The bill outlines the supervision requirements, including a minimum of three hours of supervision for every 160 hours of practice, and mandates periodic evaluations to ensure compliance.

Additionally, the bill creates new sections in the statutes that detail the process for obtaining provisional social worker certificates and licenses, including application procedures, fees, and supervision plans. It specifies that provisional certificates are valid for 36 months and cannot be renewed, while also establishing the grounds for disciplinary action if the holder fails to comply with supervision requirements. The bill aims to enhance access to social work practice by providing an alternative route for individuals who may struggle to pass the national examination while still ensuring that they receive adequate supervision and evaluation during their provisional period.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 440.08(2)(a)(intro.), 440.08, 457.08(1)(intro.), 457.08, 457.08(2)(intro.), 457.08(3)(intro.), 457.08(4)(intro.)