2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26108717D

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 302

Offered March 5, 2026

Celebrating the life of Justin Dolan.

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Patron—Simon

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WHEREAS, Justin Dolan, a dedicated advocate for individuals with disabilities and a cherished member of his community in Falls Church and later in Alexandria, died in February 2026; and

WHEREAS, Justin Dolan was widely admired for his steadfast commitment to expanding access to services and protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities throughout the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Justin Dolan worked diligently with The Arc of Northern Virginia to ensure that more Virginians received the services, supports, and legal protections they deserved, lending his voice and lived experience to strengthen public policy and community awareness; and

WHEREAS, Justin Dolan regularly attended advocacy events in Richmond alongside The Arc of Northern Virginia and the Service Employees International Union to advocate for Medicaid waiver services and the critical home care supports that enable individuals with disabilities to live independently in their communities; and

WHEREAS, Justin Dolan was often the first to volunteer to attend town halls and respond to action alerts, demonstrating exemplary civic engagement and ensuring that the concerns of individuals with disabilities and their families were heard by elected officials and community leaders; and

WHEREAS, Justin Dolan was a recognized and respected speaker who testified at public forums, including a town hall in Falls Church, where he spoke about the low pay and limited hours facing home care workers and the impact on individuals who rely on those essential services; and

WHEREAS, Justin Dolan also addressed members of the General Assembly at a town hall at the Fairfax County Government Center, courageously sharing his experiences to inform policymakers and advocate for meaningful change; and

WHEREAS, Justin Dolan's advocacy efforts were recognized in his community, including coverage in the Falls Church News-Press, and he further amplified his message by participating in campaign advertisements to raise awareness about disability rights and services; and

WHEREAS, Justin Dolan dedicated countless hours to grassroots advocacy, attending meetings in Fairfax County, making phone calls, and helping to write postcards to encourage civic participation and advance policies that support individuals with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Justin Dolan was a devoted and longstanding member of the Specially Adapted Resource Club, where he participated for many years, building lasting friendships, encouraging others, and contributing to a supportive and inclusive community; and

WHEREAS, through his authenticity and determination, Justin Dolan helped lawmakers and community members better understand the lived experience of individuals with disabilities, shifting perceptions and fostering greater empathy and inclusion; and

WHEREAS, through his advocacy, volunteerism, and unwavering spirit, Justin Dolan touched the lives of many and helped advance the cause of equality, dignity, and opportunity for all Virginians; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of Justin Dolan, a passionate advocate and valued member of the Falls Church community whose efforts strengthened the rights and services available to individuals with disabilities across the Commonwealth; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Justin Dolan as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for his memory.