Towards the end of the legislative session, much of what gets media attention is what causes outrage: party-line votes that narrowly pass and bills that fail to get over the finish line due to a lack of support. You rarely hear the good stories and difficult problems that are solved with bipartisan solutions. I want to use this week’s column to highlight a bill that passed at the end of session with overwhelming bipartisan support, a common-sense proposal that brought together legislators of both parties to solve a problem. 2025 Wisconsin Act 240, allows members of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to obtain occupational licenses in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin is currently home to approximately 5,370 DACA recipients. These individuals were brought to the United States as children by parents who were in the country illegally, and they were later granted temporary legal status by the federal government in 2012. Often referred to as “Dreamers,” many have lived in the United States nearly their entire lives. Dreamers exist in a sort of limbo: they must meet strict requirements to maintain their status, including renewing it every two years, forgoing public benefits, and avoiding criminal offenses. However, they also have no path to citizenship. The intent of this program was to provide a legal framework for them to contribute to the American workforce and economy.

Under current state law, Dreamers are legally permitted to work in most jobs in Wisconsin. They pay taxes without receiving public benefits, and pass extensive background checks. However, despite meeting the requirements, and often having the necessary education and training, they have not been allowed to legally obtain the necessary credentials required for licensed professions, such as nursing, teaching, plumbing and skilled trades, and real estate.

This legislation does not lower the standards required to obtain these credentials or allow unqualified workers into these professions. It simply allows qualified Dreamers to obtain the same credentials as anyone else. Much of our work in the Capitol focuses on attracting and retaining workers in Wisconsin. At the same time, many industries are struggling to fill positions that require licenses, roles that Dreamers are currently unable to pursue. This legislation taps into a well-vetted workforce that is already here and gives them a better reason to build their futures in Wisconsin rather than leave for other states.

I followed this bill closely as it moved through the legislative process and found the support from a broad coalition of religious groups, business associations, and labor unions to be compelling. The support it received showed me that this change is necessary. I was proud to vote in favor of this legislation, which passed the Senate 31–2 and the Assembly unanimously.

If you need assistance with any state-related matters, please call my team at the State Capitol – 608-266-0703 – or email me – Sen.Marklein@legis.wisconsin.gov. My team is ready and willing to help navigate your state government, clear obstacles, and receive your input.