BOC Advocates for ATs During Capitol Hill Visit
Shannon Fleming, MA, AT Ret., vice president of credentialing at the BOC recently took part in a Capitol Hill Day in Washington, D.C. This event took place March 7 and 8 and included organizations that are part of the Professional Certification Coalition (PCC). PCC is a nonprofit proactive and continuing coalition that monitors and responds to legislative and regulatory activity that would undermine the activities or recognition of certifications developed or offered by non-governmental, private certification organizations, and to educate stakeholders about the role of professional certification.
In addition to meetings related to advocacy and regulatory updates, the group attended scheduled Congressional Fly-In/Capitol Hill meetings in support of the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act.
This bill would provide valuable tax-advantaged resources for workers who pursue alternative career pathways, mid-career changes or career growth. The bipartisan act (H.R.1477/S.722) would expand eligible uses of tax-favorable 529 savings plans to cover costs associated with workforce training and credentialing programs, such as professional certifications, which would benefit any Athletic Trainer who currently has funds in one of these accounts.
The Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act would allow account holders to use up to $10,000/year of their 529 plans to help cover:
- Certification program tuition
- Testing fees, including practice exams
- Required books and equipment
- Continuing education and certification renewal
- Other charges required to obtain and maintain a certification
More details can be found in the PCC’s resource on the bill Flyer.