Wisconsin Department of Children and Families - Division of Early Care and Education
Bureau of Early Care Regulation
Child Care Licensing Procedure Manual
Some complaints are submitted to BECR through written form, via a letter or an electronic message. When a complainant files a complaint in writing, BECR cannot guarantee that the person’s identity will remain anonymous. Under Wisconsin's Open Records Law, Wis. Stat. § 19.35, personal identifying information can only be withheld under limited circumstances. Complainants are advised on the DCF Internet to call the BECR regional office to make a complaint without revealing one’s identity if they wish to assure anonymity.
When the complainant of a written complaint requests to remain anonymous, the BECR staff person entering the intake must enter the individual’s name and any other contact information. In the Allegations/Incident description, the staff person should note the individual wishes to remain confidential, if possible and the reason why (e.g., fear of retribution). In the event of a public record request, the records custodian will make a determination regarding release of identifying information.
If the complaint was provided through e-mail, the licensing specialist or intake staff person may contact the complainant with an e-mail response to request additional information concerning the complaint. Likewise, if the complainant provided their name, address or phone number, the licensing specialist or intake staff person may contact the complainant in writing or by phone. The complainant should be informed that BECR’s role is limited to determining whether the provider is operating illegally, that referral to other agencies may be made and that written or verbal feedback concerning the outcome of the complaint investigation can be provided if requested. The licensing specialist must proceed with anonymous written complaints if there is sufficient information to suggest potential illegal care is occurring.
This page last updated 10/2021.