Wisconsin attorneys may earn up to six CLE accreditation credits in cultural competency and bias reduction beginning with the 2026 reporting cycle.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Wisconsin attorneys will soon have additional flexibility in meeting their continuing legal education (CLE) obligations. Starting with the 2026 reporting cycle, lawyers may count up to six hours of courses on cultural competency and bias reduction toward their 30 required CLE hours every two years.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court approved this change in 2025, amending Supreme Court Rule (SCR) 31.02(5). The rule establishes a voluntary category of CLE accreditation, expanding the range of courses attorneys may include in their compliance reporting.
Key Features of the Rule
The revised rule sets clear parameters:
- Attorneys must continue to complete 30 CLE hours in each two-year reporting period.
- Up to six of those hours may come from cultural competency or bias reduction courses.
- These courses are voluntary; there is no mandate to complete them.
- Courses must meet defined criteria to qualify for CLE accreditation.
This new category is structured in the same way as other optional CLE categories, such as law practice management and lawyer awareness and understanding.
Definitions of Eligible Courses
The rule provides definitions to help determine which courses qualify:
- Cultural competency courses are designed to improve client communication and representation by enhancing knowledge of diverse populations and sensitivity to cultural differences.
- Bias reduction courses focus on identifying and reducing bias within the legal profession, the practice of law, and the justice system.
Courses must align with these definitions and be reviewed and approved through the Wisconsin Board of Bar Examiners. Accreditation will require submission of course materials, instructor qualifications, and supporting documentation consistent with existing CLE procedures.
Effective Date
The amendment takes effect for the reporting period beginning January 1, 2026. Attorneys reporting in that cycle will be able to apply up to six qualifying credits toward their biennial total.
Regional Comparison
Wisconsin’s change is consistent with developments in neighboring states. Illinois requires five specialty credits every two years that include diversity and inclusion. Iowa requires one credit annually in either wellness or diversity and inclusion. Minnesota mandates two hours on elimination of bias in each three-year reporting cycle.
Unlike those jurisdictions, Wisconsin has opted to create a voluntary category. Attorneys may decide whether or not to pursue credits in this area while still fulfilling the 30-hour requirement through other accredited courses.
Implications for CLE Providers
For CLE providers, the introduction of this new category offers opportunities to design and deliver courses that reflect the definitions outlined in SCR 31.02(5). Providers should ensure that course objectives and materials are clearly documented and that submissions to the Board of Bar Examiners demonstrate alignment with the new criteria.
Important considerations include:
- Identifying and coding courses under the cultural competency or bias reduction category.
- Submitting complete applications for accreditation within required timeframes.
- Reporting attendance and issuing certificates consistent with CLE rules.
- Communicating clearly with participants about how these courses may count toward their credit totals.
The introduction of this category also gives providers an opportunity to review their program offerings and identify where new content may align with the definitions. Planning ahead for the 2026 reporting cycle will ensure that courses are ready for attorneys who choose to pursue this option.
Supporting Providers with CLE Compliance
Rule changes like this highlight the need for providers to stay current with MCLE rules and requirements across jurisdictions. Developing courses that meet accreditation standards is only one part of the process. Equally important is ensuring that submissions are accurate, regulators’ questions are addressed, and attendance is reported properly.
This is where CLE accreditation support services become critical. Providers planning to offer courses in cultural competency and bias reduction may benefit from expert review of their course materials, guidance on submitting applications, and ongoing assistance with compliance once the program is approved.
Conclusion
The Wisconsin Supreme Court’s decision expands the options available to attorneys for meeting CLE requirements. While credits in cultural competency and bias reduction are not mandatory, they now form part of the official CLE accreditation framework.
For attorneys, the rule provides greater choice in how to fulfill the 30-hour biennial requirement. For providers, it highlights the importance of aligning course design with the definitions set out in SCR 31.02(5) and ensuring that accreditation submissions and reporting remain accurate. Attention to these details will help both attorneys and providers navigate the updated CLE framework effectively.