The 2025 NAST Legislative Conference brought members of the College Savings Plans Network (CSPN) to Washington, D.C., for a high-impact week of advocacy, networking, and policy engagement. As 529 plans continue to play a vital role in helping American families prepare for the cost of education, this year’s conference offered a timely opportunity to raise awareness of current challenges and promote key policy solutions. CSPN members participated in a range of sessions and meetings that focused on enhancing the effectiveness of 529 plans and increasing access for families across the country.
One of the key policy themes discussed was the need to align federal financial aid methodology with the goals of 529 savings. CSPN continues to advocate for changes that would exempt 529 plan balances from being treated as parental assets in FAFSA calculations—an adjustment that would remove one of the most cited deterrents to account participation. In addition, members promoted legislation that would expand 529 plan uses to include postsecondary credentials and career-aligned programs, helping families save not just for college, but for a range of workforce development opportunities.
CSPN’s Federal Initiatives Committee convened during the conference, reaffirming the network’s federal priorities for the coming year and coordinating outreach strategies for engaging Congress. With more than 16.9 million open accounts and over $526 billion saved in 529 plans nationwide, CSPN’s voice remains a critical one in conversations about the future of education access and affordability.
A highlight of the conference was the presentation of the Chris Allen Memorial Award for Outstanding Advocacy in Public Finance, which honors individuals who have made a lasting impact in advancing NAST’s federal priorities. Two of this year’s honorees, John Stevens, Director of the Bureau of Savings Programs at the Pennsylvania Treasury, and Nicola Bunick, Deputy General Counsel and Federal Policy Advisor at the Illinois State Treasury were recognized in part for their leadership on college savings issues. John has provided long-standing service to CSPN through leadership, expertise, and program excellence. Nicola has been instrumental in advancing CSPN priorities at the federal level through strategic policy work and advocacy support.
As Congress considers new tax and education legislation, CSPN members left the conference energized and united in their mission to ensure that 529 plans continue to evolve in ways that meet the needs of today’s students and tomorrow’s workforce.
About the author:
Dillon Gibbons is the Director of Policy at the National Association of State Treasurers (NAST).