The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) shared key policy victories following the recent passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act, a sweeping budget package that was signed into law by President Trump last week. While ASTA takes no position on the bill’s overall content, the association applauds the inclusion of two provisions it championed on behalf of travel advisors nationwide.

Section 199A Deduction Made Permanent 

The bill makes permanent a valuable tax break that was set to expire at the end of this year. Known as the Section 199A deduction, it allows many small businesses, including independent travel advisors, to deduct 20 percent of their qualified business income (QBI). The updated law raises the income limits to $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for couples filing jointly. Plus, it guarantees a minimum $400 deduction (adjusted for inflation) for anyone earning at least $1,000 in active business income. ASTA advocated for an extension of the tax provision earlier this year.

529 Plans Reimagined as “Career Savings Accounts” 

The budget bill also included the text of the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act (H.R. 1151/S. 756), supported by ASTA as part of the Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition, which expands qualified expenses under 529 savings plans to include postsecondary training and credentialing, such as ASTA’s Verified Travel Advisor certification. It provides valuable tax-advantaged resources to more workers pursuing career growth, mid-career changes or alternative career pathways.   
 
"Travel advisors pour their profits into customer service, technology and education," said Jessica Klement, ASTA’s Vice President of Advocacy. "Making the tax deduction permanent provides certainty so they can keep innovating for travelers. Additionally, expanding the permissible use of 529 plan funds beyond traditional college costs means professionals can choose the training that best suits their goals," Klement continued. "It is a common‑sense update that will strengthen the travel advisor profession."

Join ASTA on Capitol Hill 

ASTA will keep advocating for policies that allow advisors to thrive. Members ready to lend their voice can register for ASTA Legislative Day, October 6–8, 2025, in Washington, DC. This action-packed conference is the premier advocacy event for travel advisors. Attending ASTA Legislative Day gives advisors an opportunity to discuss the real challenges facing the industry with lawmakers and their staff. Participants advocate for policies that support travel advisors, gain exclusive insights from ASTA’s advocacy team and strengthen ASTA’s reputation as a leader and voice for the profession.