2026 SESSION
ENROLLED
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 25
Designating the third full week of October, in 2026 and in each succeeding year, as Non-Apparent Disabilities Awareness Week in Virginia.
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 11, 2026
Agreed to by the Senate, March 3, 2026
WHEREAS, many Virginians live with a medical condition that both impacts their day-to-day life and is not readily apparent to others; and
WHEREAS, these non-apparent disabilities include neurological, cognitive, developmental, and mental health disorders, chronic pain, and autoimmune, sensory-processing, and learning disabilities; and
WHEREAS, individuals suffering from a non-apparent disability may be accused of exaggerating or faking their condition and may not receive adequate assistance, resources, or support to navigate the challenges of their disorder; and
WHEREAS, individuals may be unwilling to disclose the nature of their non-apparent disability for fear of the discrimination or stigma that it may bring; and
WHEREAS, several organizations are dedicated to raising awareness of non-apparent disabilities and to educating the general public, inspiring change in our communities, and collaborating with people touched by illness, pain, and disability around the Commonwealth; and