Wisconsin Lawmakers Push for Legislator-to-Lobbyist Cooling-Off Period

Bill aims to institute a one-year waiting period, but faces uphill battle in state legislature

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A bipartisan group of Wisconsin lawmakers have introduced a bill to institute a one-year 'cooling off period' for state legislators before they can work as lobbyists. This is the fourth time such a bill has been proposed in the last decade, and it will likely fail to pass this year as the state Assembly has already adjourned for the campaign season. However, the bill's sponsors plan to reintroduce it next year, hoping that a potential flip in control of the state legislature could improve its chances.

Why it matters

The proposed legislation is meant to ensure state legislators work for their constituents rather than court outside organizations willing to pay a premium for their influence, connections and expertise after leaving office. Proponents argue this would help maintain public trust in the political process and prevent conflicts of interest.

The details

The bill would institute a one-year waiting period for former state legislators before they can register as lobbyists, similar to federal laws. Supporters say this would help curb the 'revolving door' between the legislature and lobbying firms. Previous attempts at this reform have failed, but the bill's sponsors believe it has a better chance of passing if Democrats gain control of the state government in the upcoming elections.

  • The bill was introduced days before the state Assembly adjourned for the campaign season on February 20, 2026.
  • The next legislative session begins in January 2027.

The players

Mike Bare

State Representative (D-Verona) and one of the bill's authors. Bare is a former lobbyist who now advocates for the cooling-off period legislation.

Sarah Keyeski

State Senator (D-Lodi) and a lead sponsor of the latest attempt at the lobbying ban.

Robin Vos

Retiring Republican Speaker of the Wisconsin State Assembly, who announced the chamber would adjourn on February 20 before the bill could be voted on.

Jim Steineke

Former Republican member of the Wisconsin State Assembly who is now a partner and head of advocacy at The Welch Group, a lobbying firm.

Jennifer Schilling

Former Democratic member of the Wisconsin State Senate who is now a registered lobbyist for the Mayo Clinic Health System.

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What they’re saying

“We're here to represent our voters, our constituents, not the lobbyists. And we shouldn't be soliciting job offers, campaign contributions or anything from lobbyists that influences our work here and that would violate the trust that voters put in us.”

— Mike Bare, State Representative (D-Verona) (The Badger Project)

“If we want to be true public servants, we have to be willing to serve the public better. And this is part of that.”

— Sarah Keyeski, State Senator (D-Lodi) (The Badger Project)

What’s next

The bill's sponsors plan to reintroduce the legislation in the next legislative session beginning in January 2027, hoping that a potential flip in control of the state legislature could improve its chances of passing.

The takeaway

This latest attempt to institute a cooling-off period for legislators-turned-lobbyists highlights the ongoing debate over the influence of money and special interests in state politics. While Wisconsin has generally avoided major ethics scandals, proponents argue that strengthening rules around the 'revolving door' between government and lobbying is crucial to maintaining public trust in elected officials.