Honoring the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, a daughter of Tennessee whose extraordinary contributions to music, philanthropy, literacy, education, health, conservation, and culture enriched the lives of countless Americans.

119th Congress Introduced by Tim Burchett and 8 co-sponsors

H.Res. 1507 commemorates Dolly Parton’s life and philanthropy, recognizing her literacy, health, and community work and urging Americans to follow her charitable example.

Submitted in House

Summary of H.Res. 1507 (119th Congress)

Purpose and Intent

This resolution honors the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, praising her contributions to music, philanthropy, literacy, education, health, conservation, and culture.

It acknowledges Parton’s deep ties to Tennessee (particularly Sevier County and East Tennessee) and her impact on American society, especially through charitable work and community-focused initiatives.

Key Provisions and Provisions of the Resolution

Mourning and Condolences:

The House expresses mourning for Dolly Parton’s passing (died August 25, 2026) and extends condolences to her family, friends, and Tennesseans.

Recognition of Achievements:

Recognizes Parton’s lasting contributions to American music, entertainment, education, health care, medical research, disaster relief, conservation, and philanthropy.
Highlights her induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame (1999), Library of Congress Living Legend Medal (2004), and Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy (2022).

Emphasis on Foundational Programs:

Recognizes the Dollywood Foundation and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library as enduring expressions of her commitment to children’s education and literacy.

Local and National Impact:

Highlights Parton’s service to East Tennessee and the broader United States, including disaster relief and health initiatives.

Encouragement to Citizens:

Encourages Americans to honor Parton’s memory by continuing her example of charity, kindness, service, perseverance, and community spirit.

Personal Philosophy:

Quotes Parton’s belief: “My dream was to make as many people happy as I could in this life,” and notes that her life fulfilled that dream for many Americans.

Who or What Would Be Affected

Structural impact:

The resolution itself has symbolic and ceremonial impact, recognizing and applauding Parton’s life and achievements.

Communities affected:

Tennessee communities, especially Sevier County and East Tennessee, are highlighted due to Parton’s philanthropy and local initiatives.

Institutions and programs acknowledged:

Dollywood Foundation
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Associated health and disaster-relief efforts (e.g., My People Fund)

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Introduction and Referral:

Introduced in the House on September 2, 2026.
Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.

Status:

As of introduction, the bill is a concurrent or simple House resolution expressing condolences and recognition; it does not legislate policy or authorize funding.

Sponsorship:

Primary sponsor: Representative Diana Harshbarger (with multiple co-sponsors, including John Rose, Andy Ogles, Steve Cohen, David Kustoff, Tim Burchett, Chuck Fleischmann, Matt Van Epps, Scott DesJarlais).

Bottom Line

H.Res. 1507 is a commemorative House resolution honoring Dolly Parton’s life, philanthropy, and enduring impact on literacy, health, and community service. It codifies national recognition of her legacy and invites Americans to emulate her charitable ethos. The resolution commemorates her achievements and programs (notably the Imagination Library) and encourages continued follow-through on her example.