For instance, Browne noted, childcare workers rely on the state Department of Children and Families to do business. He questioned whether someone recommended by the agency would feel comfortable sharing negative feedback at a listening session.

He also questioned the appropriateness of lobbyists supplying the governor with an audience, noting one exchange in which a lobbyist, asked for names, responded that he also needed to speak with the governor's office about an administrative rule.

"Gov. Walker's office used special interest lobbyists with business before them to find attendees, state agencies were directed to 'invite' people who rely on state government to do business and fellow Republican legislators turned over their lists of local political insiders," Browne said.

Beverly Anderson, executive director of Ebenezer Child Care Centers in Milwaukee, was one of several childcare providers to be recommended by a lobbyist. Anderson said she felt the session she attended in February was worthwhile and she appreciated the opportunity to participate.