Data from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction seems to contradict Gee's claim that Wisconsin doesn't have a supportive culture for the development of charter schools. "With 206 charter schools across the state, we're seventh in the nation in the number of charter schools overall," says Patrick Gasper, spokesman for the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

Gasper notes that Wisconsin charters have been fortunate in avoiding financial scandals that have plagued some independent charter operations in places like Minnesota and Arizona. "We've had excellent accountability for our charter schools through local oversight."

One of the provisions in Darling's bill would reduce the certification requirements for teachers in charter schools. The bill would create a charter school teaching license that allows teachers to teach multiple subjects in their schools. Teachers would need to demonstrate competence in their subject areas, but there would be several ways of doing that, including relevant work experience. Supporters say such a provision broadens the pool of instructors but opponents say it will mean less qualified teachers in the classroom.

Darling's bill would also remove the cap on virtual charter school enrollment, which is currently set at 5,250 students.