Press Release  Governor Healey Requests President Trump Lower Flags in Observance of International Overdose Awareness Day 

Boston — Governor Maura Healey has requested that President Trump lower flags to half-staff on August 31, 2025, in observance of International Overdose Awareness Day and in remembrance of the millions of American lives lost to overdoses. 

“Far too many families have been devastated by overdoses, both here in Massachusetts and across the country,” said Governor Healey. “Lowering the United States and Massachusetts flags will serve as an important reminder for all of us to take time on this day to honor the memories of those who have lost their lives to overdoses and re-commit ourselves to doing the important work of combatting substance use disorder. We cannot afford to look away. I appreciate the President’s careful consideration of our request, and I’m grateful for the advocates who are leading this fight every day.”

More than one million Americans have lost their lives to overdose since 1999, and the devastating consequences of the overdose crisis can be seen in every community across the country. In the past decade, more than 20,000 people have died from overdoses in Massachusetts alone.

Under Governor Healey, Massachusetts has made important progress to increase access to prevention, treatment and recovery programs to combat substance use disorder and reduce overdoses. As a result, opioid-related overdose deaths in Massachusetts decreased by 36.3 percent in 2024, falling to the lowest levels since 2013.  

But more work remains to be done to save lives. Last year, in partnership with the Legislature, Governor Healey signed a bill that makes treatment and recovery support more affordable and accessible for residents living with substance use disorder. The legislation expanded access to lifesaving opioid reversal medications like naloxone and ensures that they are covered by health insurance.  

August 31 is recognized as International Overdose Awareness Day, the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember those who have lost their lives to an overdose, acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind, and renew our commitment to end overdose and related harms. 

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