Commending Eddie Garretson.

2026, 1st Special Session Introduced by Kathy Tran

The bill formally commends Eddie Garretson for founding and growing programs that provide year-round social and recreational opportunities for people with disabilities, impacting t

Bill text as passed House (HR2182ER)

Summary of Bill HR 2182 (2026S1) – Virginia House of Delegates

Purpose and intent

The bill is a House of Delegates resolution recognizing and commending an individual, Eddie Garretson, upon his retirement.

It celebrates Garretson’s more than 33 years of service and leadership in providing recreational opportunities for people with disabilities in the Springfield area and Fairfax County.

The resolution serves as a formal expression of admiration and appreciation from the Virginia House of Delegates.

Key provisions and changes

Official commendation: The House of Delegates commends Eddie Garretson for his outstanding service to the special needs community.

Foundational achievements highlighted:

Founding the Springfield Challengers in 1993, a baseball program for players with disabilities.
Expanding the program from nine players to serving more than 100 players annually across multiple divisions.
Providing opportunities for travel and participation in events (e.g., Virginia Beach, Williamsport, PA, and even a White House visit) to showcase athletes and foster growth.
Establishing Eddie’s Club, founded to offer year-round social and recreational activities for youth.

Recognition of impact: Emphasizes Garretson’s role in fostering confidence, social skills, friendships, teamwork, inclusion, and lasting community benefits for thousands of players and their families.

Who or what would be affected

Eddie Garretson: The individual recipient of the commendation.

Springfield Challengers and Eddie’s Club: The organizations whose impact and leadership are being recognized, with emphasis on their contributions to people with disabilities and their families.

The broader community: The resolution frames Garretson’s work as a model of volunteerism and community service benefiting the special needs community within Springfield, Fairfax County, and the Commonwealth.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Status: Introduced and presented June 22, 2026, in the Special Session (Session: 2026S1).

Action: The resolution was engrossed, agreed to by the House by voice vote, and laid on the Speaker’s table on June 22, 2026.

Sponsorship: primary sponsor is a member of the House, with a co-sponsor identified as Kathy Tran.

Additional notes

This is a ceremonial resolution, not a bill that enacts statutory changes or appropriates funds. Its primary function is formal recognition and commendation.

The language consistently emphasizes the values of inclusion, volunteerism, and the positive impact of programs for individuals with disabilities.