Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic is causing a rise in overdose deaths throughout New Jersey and the entire country.  Overdose deaths are up 20 percent this year over the same time period in 2019.  Due to this increased spike, Senator Anthony M. Bucco is calling to designate August 31 as Overdose Awareness Day in New Jersey on a local, county, and state level. 

International Overdose Awareness Day, held August 31 each year, aims to raise awareness of overdoses and reduce the stigma of drug-related death. It is also a day to acknowledge the grief felt by family and friends, who remember loved ones that died or were permanently injured due to a drug overdose.

Senator Bucco is calling on local and county elected officials to pass a resolution within their communities to better recognize Overdose Awareness Day across the state. The senator continues to be a champion for families and those struggling with substance use disorder in fighting for increased prevention, treatment and recovery services throughout the state. I applaud Senator Bucco in working to raise awareness for this day, which looks to end the stigma of addiction and remember the victims we have lost along the way.

We must remain vigilant to raise awareness and fight against this terrible disease. To learn more about the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s free prevention initiatives please visit our website.

Continued wishes to stay safe and well.