Posted Monday, August 31, 2009 --- 3:10 p.m.

Press Release from the WI Department of Regulation & Licensing:

Madison Physician Suspended by Medical Examining Board

Madison, WI – Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing (DRL) Secretary Celia Jackson announced that William B. Hobbins, M.D. of Madison, had his license to practice medicine and surgery suspended recently by the Medical Examining Board (MEB).

At its August 19, 2009 meeting, the MEB found that the preliminary report of a neuropsychological evaluation of Hobbins conducted on July 31, 2009 is consistent with Hobbins having cognitive difficulties which prevent him from practicing medicine with reasonable safety to patients. Hobbins agreed to the evaluation which was requested by DRL and the MEB in an effort to settle a disciplinary action pending against him.

“The action taken by the MEB safeguards the public, without compromising the licensee’s rights, while DRL’s Division of Enforcement pursues the case,” said MEB Chair Gene Musser, M.D.

The suspension, which prohibits Hobbins from practicing, is in place for 30 days, but can be extended while the disciplinary proceeding goes forward.

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Press Release from the WI Department of Regulation & Licensing:

Real Estate Board Suspends Belleville Broker

Madison, WI – Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing (DRL) Secretary Celia Jackson announced today that the state Real Estate Board (REB) has suspended the license of James A. Olson of Belleville to practice as a real estate broker for 180 days.

According to the REB order, approved at its August 20th, 2009 meeting, Olson listed a home for sale and subsequently presented the sellers with an offer to purchase that he had drafted for a buyer that he had a partnership interest with. The REB concluded that Olson did not disclose this fact to the sellers in writing as required by Wisconsin Statutes and Administrative Code. Instead he informed the sellers of the relationship verbally, at the time of closing on the property.

“These rules of disclosure are in place to protect parties in a real estate transaction and allow them to make informed choice,” said Secretary Jackson.

Olson is the owner/broker of River City Realty in Belleville. His suspension will begin September 19th, 2009. Olson agreed to the REB’s action including its requirement that he pay a forfeiture of $500 and $2,500 in costs associated with the disciplinary proceedings against him. He must also complete continuing education course in approved forms and business ethics for real estate within one year. Failure to complete the ordered educational courses or pay the ordered costs and forfeiture could result in the revocation of Olson’s license.