American Society of Safety Professionals is your source for insights on trends in the safety profession, including developments in safety management, worker safety, government and regulatory affairs and standards.
This spring, ASSP joined hundreds of associations in Washington, D.C., to advocate for a crucial piece of legislation: the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act (H.R. 1151/S. 756). This bipartisan bill aims to allow 529 college savings plans to cover professional credentials like certifications and licenses.
For safety professionals, this isn't just policy talk — it's a practical way to reduce financial barriers to continuing education, specialized certifications, and ultimately, career advancement. Imagine using your existing education savings to invest directly in the professional development that takes your safety career to the next level.
Big News: It's Moving Forward!
We’re pleased to announce a significant stride forward: The bill was included in the House’s recently passed tax reform package, a major win for workforce development. If enacted, this would give professionals greater access to tax-advantaged funds for postsecondary training, supporting both individual career growth and the broader safety profession.
How We Made It Happen (and Why It Matters)
This progress didn’t happen by chance. When the House Ways and Means Committee released its initial draft bill in early May, it contained provisions that raised serious concerns for associations and nonprofits — including proposed taxes on revenue from sources like name and logo royalties.
Here’s the powerful takeaway: Thanks to coordinated outreach and strong engagement from dedicated association leaders and members (including many of you!), the final House package removed that problematic royalty provision and, crucially, included expanded support for workforce development.
This is a meaningful example of what we can accomplish when we work together to educate policymakers about the immense value of the nonprofit sector. When over 2,000 messages were sent to lawmakers by the American Society of Association Executives’ (ASAE) Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition and Community Impact Coalition (which ASSP was proud to be a part of), our collective voice was heard. It proves that advocacy works!
What's Next? Your Voice is Still Needed!
While this is real momentum, the journey isn't over. The legislation now heads to the Senate for consideration. While the bill still includes some provisions of concern for nonprofits (such as a measure that could increase taxable income for certain transportation and parking benefits provided by nonprofits), the inclusion of the 529 expansion is a significant win. It reflects a growing recognition of how professionals pursue education and training in today's dynamic world, and it reinforces the vital role associations play in supporting that journey.
Continued engagement will be essential. ASSP will remain active through the Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition and alongside partners in the broader nonprofit community.
Here's How You Can Help Keep the Momentum Going:
Stay Informed: Follow ASSP's advocacy updates and keep an eye on developments in the Senate.
Share Your Perspective: When the time is right, reach out to your senators. Let them know how changes to 529 plans would directly benefit your career and the safety of America's workforce. Personal stories are powerful!
Revisit Our Original Post: For more background on how this important effort began, you can review our initial blog post.
Together, we can continue to champion policies that support professional development and advance workplace safety across the nation.