SJR 336 is a commemorative joint resolution honoring the life and service of Peter John Kemp, M.D., a Virginia Beach physician who died on September 23, 2024. The resolution recounts his medical education and training, his founding of Chesapeake Women’s Care in 1993, and his long career at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, where he helped deliver hundreds of babies in the Hampton Roads region.
The resolution highlights Dr. Kemp’s leadership roles at CRMC, including medical staff president, OB/GYN department chair, and credentials committee chairman, and emphasizes his efforts to improve physician relationships, workforce conditions, and patient safety. It also recognizes his mentorship of medical students and his advocacy on health care issues before the General Assembly. The measure concludes by expressing the General Assembly’s condolences and directing the Clerk of the Senate to present a copy to his family.
Impact
This resolution does not change state law, create regulatory requirements, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is limited to an official expression of sympathy and recognition by the General Assembly, with a ceremonial copy to be delivered to Dr. Kemp’s family. The only parties directly affected are the family, colleagues, patients, and community members being honored through the resolution.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the bill is uniformly positive and respectful. The resolution passed both chambers without any recorded opposition in the provided history, reflecting bipartisan or noncontroversial support for honoring a well-regarded physician and community leader. The language of the measure is memorial and celebratory rather than policy-driven.
Contention
There is no notable contention in the available record. No committee transcripts, amendments, or recorded votes indicate disagreement, and the resolution appears to have been treated as a routine honorary measure. Any discussion reflected in the text centers on Dr. Kemp’s professional contributions, leadership, and community service rather than on disputed policy issues.