The resolution congratulates Dr. Richard M. Peterson on his election as the 39th president of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), the largest professional organization dedicated to obesity treatment in the United States. Dr. Peterson has been a member of ASMBS for nearly 20 years, serving on its board since 2019 and holding various leadership roles, including chairing several committees and contributing to accreditation standards for bariatric surgery. He is currently the chief bariatric and metabolic surgery director at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and has a distinguished background in both medicine and military service.

In addition to his academic and professional achievements, Dr. Peterson is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where he played a significant role in expanding the Department of Defense's bariatric surgery program. His military honors include the Meritorious Service Medal and two Air Force Commendation Medals. The resolution expresses the Texas Senate's high regard for Dr. Peterson's dedication and expertise, wishing him continued success in his new role as president of ASMBS. An official copy of the resolution will be prepared for him as a token of appreciation.